Multidimensional Inequality of CO2 and Air Pollutant Footprints in China under Dual-Carbon Policy

Vollständiger Abstract

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Abstract Economic inequality plays an important role in pollution control and sustainable development, yet the inequalities of CO2 and air pollutant emissions remain unknown under China’s dual-carbon policy. Here we construct a comprehensive framework to quantitatively evaluate inequalities and evolution in individual CO2 and air pollutant footprints in China for 2020–2060. Results show that the per capita footprint of the top 10% is the highest (CO2, 28.5 t; NOx, 50.6 kg), whereas that of the bottom 50% is the lowest (CO2, 1.2 t; NOx, 4.7 kg). Over 90% of inequality in individual footprints is attributed to intraprovincial (not interprovincial) gaps between low and high emitters, which would widen by 2060. The top 1% of footprints (e.g., 96% of SO2) are derived from investment, while the bottom 50% of footprints (88% of NH3) come from household consumption for basic needs. These findings offer empirical support for policies toward a more equitable, low-carbon, and sustainability-aligned future.