Advancements in Carbon Reduction and Metrology Technologies in Response to China's Dual Carbon Goals

The excessive emission of greenhouse gases has led to a surge in extreme weather events and natural disasters, necessitating a shift to low-carbon development. In 2020, China set forth the strategic dual carbon goals of 'carbon peaking' and 'carbon neutrality' to foster low-carbon growth. Since the implementation of these goals, guided by the '1+N' policy framework, China has made significant strides in carbon emission reduction. However, balancing high-quality economic growth while striving to meet these dual carbon objectives remains a formidable challenge. This paper analyzes the current application of carbon reduction and metrology technologies in achieving these goals, summarizing key research areas to alleviate the pressures associated with their realization. The study encompasses both domestic and international carbon reduction technologies, focusing on lowering greenhouse gas warming potentials, reducing radiative forcing, and controlling carbon emissions. A primary research focus identified is the development of safe, reliable clean alternative energy sources. Metrology technology plays a crucial role in supporting China’s dual carbon initiatives and ensuring that carbon emission data align with international standards. The paper explores the progress of metrology technology in areas such as greenhouse gas monitoring, carbon emission accounting, low global warming potential (GWP) gas development, and international greenhouse gas comparisons. Key research directions include establishing a metrology system for greenhouse gas monitoring and traceability, enhancing carbon emission metrology methods, and leveraging uncertainty assessment in various tasks. Special attention is required for the development and application of metrology technology in formulating low GWP chemicals. Challenges such as resolving measurement biases due to matrix gases and accurately measuring target impurity gas concentrations in feed gases are highlighted as critical areas for future international greenhouse gas comparison efforts.