Climate implications of GWP‐based reductions in greenhouse gas emissions

Abstract

Possible implications of a GWP‐based implementation of GHG reductions on future man‐made climate change are explored. Abatement scenarios are established in terms of “CO 2 equivalents” using GWP 100 ; one scenario reducing CO 2 only, and one reducing short‐lived gases, mainly CH 4 . Future temperature changes are calculated by using a simple climate model. Equal emission scenarios in terms of CO 2 equivalents do not imply equivalent climate responses and large differences in the magnitude and rate of temperature change are calculated.