Comparison of marginal abatement cost curves for 2020 and 2030: Longer perspectives for effective global GHG emission reductions

Abstract

This study focuses on analyses of greenhouse gas (GHG) emission reductions, from the perspective of interrelationships among time points and countries, in order to seek effective reductions. We assessed GHG emission reduction potentials and costs in 2020 and 2030 by country and sector, using a GHG emission reduction-assessment model of high resolution regarding region and technology, and of high consistency with intertemporal, interregional, and intersectoral relationships. Global GHG emission reduction potentials relative to baseline emissions in 2020 are 8.4, 14.7, and 18.9 GtCO 2eq. at costs below 20, 50, and 100 $/tCO 2eq., corresponding to +19, -2, and -7 %, respectively, relative to 2005. The emission reduction potential for 2030 is greater than that for 2020, mainly because many energy supply and energy-intensive technologies have long lifetimes and more of the current key facilities will be extant in 2020 than in 2030. The emission reduction potentials in 2030 are 12.6, 22.0, and 26.6 GtCO 2eq. at costs below 20, 50, and 100 $/tCO 2eq., corresponding to +33, +8, and -3 %, respectively, relative to 2005. Global emission reduction potentials at a cost below 50 $/tCO 2eq. for nuclear power and carbon capture and storage are 2.3 and 2.2 GtCO 2eq., respectively, relative to baseline emissions in 2030. Longer-term perspectives on GHG emission reductions toward 2030 will yield more cost-effective reduction scenarios for 2020 as well. © 2012 Springer.