A comprehensive evaluation of the spatiotemporal variation of CO2 and its driving forces over China

With the improved accuracy and high spatiotemporal resolution, satellite remote sensing has provided an alternative way for monitoring the variations of CO 2 in remote areas where field observations are inadequately sampled but the emissions of CO 2 are increasing rapidly. Based on CO 2 estimates from satellite remote sensing and the atmospheric tracer transport model, this study assessed the spatiotemporal patterns of atmospheric CO 2 and its driving forces across China. Results show a consistent increase in CO 2 at all levels of the troposphere, with the growth rate exceeding 2.1 ppm/year. Among them, the near surface witnessed obvious spatial heterogeneity with the highest concentrations of CO 2 occurring in East China and the lowest in Northwest China. This strong spatial differentiation disappeared with increase in altitude and is replaced by a distinct south–north gradient difference at the upper troposphere. With regard to vertical variations, the concentration and growth rates of CO 2 at the lower troposphere are generally higher than those at the upper troposphere. The driving mechanism analysis indicates that the variation of CO 2 at the near surface is primarily caused by anthropogenic and biogenic activities, while air motion dominates the distribution of CO 2 at the upper troposphere. The findings of the present study could provide a valuable reference for understanding regional carbon cycles and formulating carbon emission reduction strategies on a national scale.