Carbon Emission Flow in Networks

TLDR

Energy demand and anthropogenic carbon emissions are rising with population growth, driving attention to reducing emissions; the large-scale transport of energy within transmission networks creates a virtual circulation of carbon emissions. The study introduces the concept of “carbon emission flow in networks” to understand the circulation of carbon emissions and their relationship with energy consumption. It establishes a method to calculate carbon emission flow in networks. Analysis of China’s energy pattern shows that the concept is both feasible and offers an innovative theoretical perspective.

Abstract

As the human population increases and production expands, energy demand and anthropogenic carbon emission rates have been growing rapidly, and the need to decrease carbon emission levels has drawn increasing attention. The link between energy production and consumption has required the large-scale transport of energy within energy transmission networks. Within this energy flow, there is a virtual circulation of carbon emissions. To understand this circulation and account for the relationship between energy consumption and carbon emissions, this paper introduces the concept of "carbon emission flow in networks" and establishes a method to calculate carbon emission flow in networks. Using an actual analysis of China's energy pattern, the authors discuss the significance of this new concept, not only as a feasible approach but also as an innovative theoretical perspective.