Study on Land Use Carbon Emissions Differences and Carbon Balance Zoning in the Chengdu-Chongqing Metropolitan Area

This study followed a research process comprising carbon accounting, spatiotemporal variation analysis of carbon emissions, and carbon balance zoning. Based on land use and energy consumption data from 2010 to 2020, it analyses the characteristics of land use change in the Chengdu-Chongqing urban agglomeration over the past decade. Spatiotemporal variation analysis of carbon emissions was conducted separately for carbon sources, carbon sinks, and net carbon emissions. Finally, carbon balance zoning was conducted using carbon compensation rates, economic contribution coefficients, and ecological contribution coefficients to propose region-specific carbon reduction strategies. Findings indicate: (1) The Chengdu-Chongqing agglomeration exhibits increasing net carbon emissions from land use, with forested areas serving as primary carbon sinks and constructed land as major carbon sources; (2) Carbon source variations predominantly occur in the Chengdu Plain and the parallel ridges and valleys of eastern Sichuan, identifying these as priority areas for emission control. Carbon sink changes are mainly distributed in peripheral cities and intermediate cities with lower industrialization levels; (3) The Chengdu-Chongqing agglomeration is categorized into five carbon balance functional zones: the central region constitutes a high-carbon optimization zone, surrounded by carbon sink functional zones, low-carbon maintenance zones, economic development zones, and carbon intensity control zones. Research conclusions: Significant variations exist in regional carbon budgets. Carbon balance zoning types should be comprehensively evaluated based on local conditions, traditional development models adjusted, and green, low-carbon development promoted.