Carbon Emission Reduction Potential in Coal Resource-Based Regions for Land Use Planning: Evidence From China

Coal resource-based regions have been facing severe challenges in reducing carbon emissions due to the carbon locking effect. However, the carbon emission reduction potential of land use in these regions has not been explored sufficiently. To explore the carbon emission reduction potential of coal-resource regions, we conducted a study on land use carbon emissions in the middle and lower reaches of the Yellow River. The carbon emission calculation model and carbon footprint pressure index were utilized to estimate land use carbon emissions in the study area. In addition, the LMDI model was used to determine the factors affecting land use carbon emissions. The results are as follows: (1) The most significant feature of land use change is the transition from cropland to construction land. (2) Land use carbon emissions show a remarkable growth trend, and construction land is the major contributor. (3) The carbon footprint pressure index exhibits an upward trend, but at a slow rate. (4) The economic development effect is the dominant factor for the increase of land use carbon emissions. The results can provide scientific references for realizing rational land use planning and global sustainable low-carbon development.