On January 12, the Ministry of Ecology and Environment (MEE) announced the official launch of the first edition of the National Greenhouse Gas Emission Factor Database (referred to as the "Database").
Source: Science and Technology Daily
On January 12, the Ministry of Ecology and Environment (MEE) announced the official launch of the first edition of the National Greenhouse Gas Emission Factor Database (referred to as the "Database"). Jointly developed by the MEE and the National Bureau of Statistics, the Database represents a key component of China's carbon emission accounting framework. It provides essential data on greenhouse gas (GHG) emission factors, aiming to enhance the precision of carbon emission statistics and calculations across industries and sectors.
A representative from the MEE’s Climate Change Department emphasized that GHG emission factors are critical parameters for calculating carbon emissions. Publishing and regularly updating a comprehensive, accurate, and transparent national database of emission factors is a foundational step in establishing a standardized carbon emission accounting system.
The first edition of the Database primarily focuses on industry and enterprise-level emission factors, designed to calculate GHG emissions at the enterprise level. These factors are aligned with emission sources and classifications outlined in the technical guidelines for industries participating in China’s national carbon trading market. The Database includes:
Direct Emission Factors: Covering fuel combustion, coal production, carbonate use, clinker manufacturing, energy use as raw materials, wastewater treatment, solid waste disposal, and agricultural activities.
Indirect Emission Factors: Accounting for emissions linked to net electricity purchases.
Greenhouse Gases Covered: Carbon dioxide (CO₂), methane (CH₄), nitrous oxide (N₂O), and fluorinated gases (F-gases).
To ensure the Database remains aligned with the latest technological advancements and accurately reflects China's current GHG emission profiles, updates will be conducted annually. This continuous enhancement will ensure that the data stays relevant and reliable for carbon accounting and reporting.
By launching the Database, China has taken a significant step toward unifying its carbon emission accounting practices, supporting the country’s broader climate goals, including the pursuit of carbon neutrality.