GWPga

GWPga, or Global Warming Potential per gram, is a metric used to compare the relative impact of different greenhouse gases on global warming. It is calculated by multiplying the Global Warming Potential (GWP) of a gas by its molecular weight. The GWP of a gas is a measure of how much heat a given mass of the gas absorbs, relative to the same mass of carbon dioxide (CO2) over a specified time period, typically 100 years. The molecular weight is the average mass of a molecule of the gas.

The GWPga is useful for comparing the impact of different gases on a per-gram basis, which can be particularly relevant for gases that are emitted in small quantities but have a high GWP. For example, methane (CH4) has a high GWP but a low molecular weight, so its GWPga is relatively low. In contrast, hydrofluorocarbons (HFCs) have a low GWP but a high molecular weight, so their GWPga can be relatively high.

The GWPga is often used in the context of emissions trading schemes, where the goal is to reduce the overall impact of greenhouse gas emissions. By focusing on the GWPga, policymakers can target gases that have a disproportionately large impact on global warming, even if they are emitted in small quantities. However, it is important to note that the GWPga is just one of many factors that can influence the overall impact of greenhouse gas emissions, and that other metrics, such as the GWP itself, may also be relevant.

In summary, GWPga is a metric used to compare the relative impact of different greenhouse gases on global warming, calculated by multiplying the GWP of a gas by its molecular weight. It is useful for comparing the impact of different gases on a per-gram basis, but it is important to consider other factors when evaluating the overall impact of greenhouse gas emissions.