Regional CO2 Concentration Differences between China and Yonaguni Island - 2020s

Regional CO2 Concentration Differences between China and Yonaguni Island - 2020s

In the 2020s, CO2 emissions from China continue to significantly affect the air on Japan's Yonaguni and Hateruma Islands. Yonaguni Island (Okinawa Prefecture) is about 111 km from mainland China, and during winter, the East Asian monsoon carries air from the continent to the island. As a result, emissions from China's coal combustion reach the island, causing an increase in atmospheric CO2 levels.

During the COVID-19 pandemic in 2020, industrial activity in China temporarily halted, resulting in a 32% reduction in CO2 emissions. However, as economic activity resumed, emissions surged again. In 2021, coal-fired power plants operated at full capacity, and CO2 emissions from coal in China reached 15.3 gigatons, surpassing the peak level seen in 2014. In particular, Nantong Port in Jiangsu Province saw an increase in coal transportation and consumption, with rapid expansion in power generation and cement production.

On Yonaguni and Hateruma Islands, concentrations of CO2 and methane carried from mainland China have been observed, providing real-time data to assess China's fossil fuel emissions. This observational data allows for monitoring emission reduction progress in China, especially in relation to how industrial activity and electricity demand impact CO2 emissions.

In China, coal consumption fluctuates in the short term, especially during extreme weather conditions or periods of rapid economic recovery. During these times, coal consumption increases to meet electricity demand, resulting in record-high CO2 emissions.