Tracing global N2O emission mitigation strategies through trade networks

Nitrous oxide (N2O) is the third most potent greenhouse gas (GHG) and the most important ozone depleting substance. But how global N2O emissions are connected through the interwoven trade network remains unclear. This paper attempts to specifically trace anthropogenic N2O emissions via global trade networks using a multiregional input-output model and a complex network model. Nearly one quarter of global N2O emissions can be linked to products traded internationally in 2014. The top 20 economies contribute to about 70% of the total embodied N2O emission flows. In terms of the trade embodied emissions classified by sources, cropland-, livestock-, chemistry-, and other industries-related embodied N2O emissions account for 41.9%, 31.2%, 19.9%, and 7.0%, respectively. Clustering structure of the global N2O flow network is revealed by the regional integration of 5 trading communities. Hub economies such as mainland China and the USA are collectors and distributors, and some emerging countries, such as Mexico, Brazil, India, and Russia, also exhibit dominance in different kinds of networks. This study selects the cattle sector to further verify that low production-side emission intensities and trade cooperation can lead to N2O emission reduction. In view of the impact of trade networks on global N2O emissions, achieving N2O emission reduction calls for vigorous international cooperation.

Automated summary

This paper uses a multiregional input-output model and a complex network model to trace anthropogenic N2O emissions via global trade networks. In 2014, nearly one quarter of global N2O emissions were linked to international trade, with the top 20 economies contributing to 70% of the total N2O emissions. Different industries, such as cropland, livestock, chemistry, and others, were responsible for varying percentages of trade embodied N2O emissions. The clustering structure of the global N2O flow network was revealed through regional integration of 5 trading communities, with hub economies like mainland China and the USA acting as collectors and distributors.