Global Warming Potential (GWP)
The Global Warming Potential (GWP) is a metric used to assess the climate impact of greenhouse gases. It measures how much heat a specific gas retains in the atmosphere over a defined period, compared to the same amount of carbon dioxide (CO₂), which serves as the reference with a GWP value of 1.
The Global Warming Potential (GWP) allows for the comparison of different greenhouse gases based on their contribution to global warming. It considers how efficiently a gas absorbs infrared radiation and how long it remains in the atmosphere.
Key Greenhouse Gases and their GWP values (Based on a 100-Year Horizon, GWP100)
- Carbon dioxide (CO₂) → 1 (reference value)
- Methane (CH₄) → approx. 28–30 (depending on the source)
- Nitrous oxide (N₂O) → approx. 265
- Fluorinated gases (F-gases, e.g., HFC-134a) → 1,300 to 23,500
Time horizons
GWP can be calculated for different timeframes, such as GWP20 (20 years), GWP100 (100 years), or GWP500 (500 years). GWP100 is most commonly used, as it balances short-term and long-term climate impacts.
Why is GWP important?
- It allows for a simplified conversion of various greenhouse gases into CO₂ equivalents (CO₂e).
- It is a key metric in carbon accounting (CCF, PCF) and sustainability reporting.
- It serves as the basis for climate policies, such as carbon trading and carbon taxation.
For manufacturing companies, Global Warming Potential (GWP) is highly relevant, as it is a critical metric for creating carbon footprints, emissions reports, and sustainability strategies.
