39-"Carbon Cycle Research in China"-October 1997-Environmental News

In China, research on the carbon cycle is being advanced as a measure to address climate change. The carbon cycle refers to the process by which carbon circulates through the atmosphere, oceans, land, and biosphere on Earth. Understanding and controlling these carbon flows are crucial for reducing emissions of carbon dioxide (CO2), a greenhouse gas, and mitigating the impacts of climate change.

In China, studies on the carbon cycle, particularly in the oceans, are actively conducted. According to research, the oceans serve as a major carbon sink that absorbs CO2 from the atmosphere, with an estimated 3 billion tons of CO2 being absorbed by the oceans annually. This represents a significant proportion of global CO2 emissions, highlighting the critical role oceans play in mitigating climate change.

This research involves data collection in multiple marine regions, including China's coastal areas. Research teams measure various factors such as the chemical composition of seawater, temperature, salinity, and even the activity of marine life to analyze the dynamics of the carbon cycle. Coastal regions such as the South China Sea and the Yellow Sea, which have high carbon absorption capacity, are particularly noteworthy in global research.

The carbon cycle plays a crucial role in slowing the progression of climate change. By absorbing CO2, the oceans help reduce the concentration of greenhouse gases in the atmosphere. However, the oceans' ability to absorb carbon is limited, and concerns have been raised about the effects of climate change, such as rising seawater temperatures and ocean acidification. Therefore, accurately understanding the mechanisms of the carbon cycle and formulating appropriate climate policies are necessary.

China is actively engaging in carbon cycle research, strengthening cooperation with international research institutions and other countries. Through these efforts, China aims to contribute to global climate change mitigation. Additionally, domestically, policies to balance carbon absorption and emissions are being promoted, with various initiatives such as the introduction of renewable energy and forest conservation.

China's carbon cycle research is a critical initiative for mitigating the impacts of climate change, with particular focus on the role of the oceans. It is expected that this research will continue to advance global climate change measures.