Carbon dioxide equivalent (CO2-eq or CO2e) is a metric measure used to compare the emissions of various greenhouse gases by converting their amounts into the equivalent amount of carbon dioxide (CO2), based on their global warming potential (GWP). This allows for a standardized comparison of the impact of different gases on global warming.
The calculation involves multiplying the mass of a given greenhouse gas by its GWP, resulting in the CO2e. For example, methane (CH4) has a GWP of 25, meaning that emitting one metric ton of methane is equivalent to emitting 25 metric tons of CO2 in terms of its effect on climate change. Similarly, nitrous oxide (N2O) has a GWP of 298, making it significantly more potent than CO2.
Understanding CO2e is essential for developing effective climate policies and strategies, as it enables policymakers and researchers to assess the cumulative impact of various greenhouse gases and prioritize mitigation efforts accordingly.
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