Work

Temporo-Spatial Relationship Between Energy Consumption, Air Pollution and Carbon Emissions in the Guangdong–Hong Kong–Macao Greater Bay Area, China

Year: 2025

Type: article

Abstract: The Guangdong–Hong Kong–Macao Greater Bay Area (GBA) is a key economic region in China facing increasing pressure to balance socioeconomic development with environmental protection and energy conservation. This study examines the interrelationships among energy consumption, air pollutants (PM2.5, NO2, and SO2), and carbon dioxide (CO2) emissions in the GBA from 2000 to 2020. Using spatial correlation matrices and temporo-spatial decoupling analysis, we assess spatial patterns, temporal dynamics, and interactions among these factors. Results show that the GBA has made significant progress in reducing air pollution and carbon emissions. Notably, since 2013, concentrations of PM2.5, NO2, and SO2 have decoupled markedly from energy consumption, reflecting effective pollution control measures. Although CO2 emissions have decreased more gradually, the trend remains positive, indicating steady advances in carbon management. These findings underscore the need for continued optimization of the energy structure to achieve coordinated control of energy use, air quality, and carbon emissions—essential for promoting sustainable, high-quality development in the region.

Source: Sustainability

DOI: 10.3390/su172411175

Authors: Chao Xu, Yanfei Lei, Xulong Liu, Yunpeng Wang, Jie Xiao

Institutions: Guangdong Academy of Sciences, Guangzhou Institute of Geography, Chinese Academy of Sciences, Guangzhou Institute of Geochemistry, University of Chinese Academy of Sciences

Language: English

Topic: Energy, Environment, Economic Growth

Subfield: Economics and Econometrics

Field: Economics, Econometrics and Finance

Domain: Social Sciences

SDGs: Climate action, Sustainable cities and communities

Open Access status: gold

Estimated APC paid: $2,896