Global Warming Potential Calculator Formula
Understand the math behind the global warming potential calculator. Each variable explained with a worked example.
Formulas Used
CO2-Equivalent
co2_equivalent = gas_mass_kg * gwp_factorCO2-Equivalent (tonnes)
co2_equiv_tonnes = gas_mass_kg * gwp_factor / 1000Variables
| Variable | Description | Default |
|---|---|---|
gas_mass_kg | Mass of Gas Emitted(kg) | 100 |
gwp_factor | GWP Factor (relative to CO2) | 28 |
How It Works
Understanding Global Warming Potential
Global Warming Potential (GWP) compares the heat-trapping ability of a greenhouse gas to CO2 over a specified period, typically 100 years.
Formula
CO2-Equivalent (kg) = Mass of Gas (kg) x GWP Factor
Common GWP-100 values: Methane (CH4) = 28, Nitrous Oxide (N2O) = 265, SF6 = 23,500. A higher GWP means the gas traps more heat per kilogram than CO2.
Worked Example
A farm releases 100 kg of methane (GWP = 28) over a year.
gas_mass_kg = 100gwp_factor = 28
- 01CO2-equivalent = 100 kg x 28 = 2,800 kg CO2e
- 02In tonnes: 2,800 / 1,000 = 2.8 tonnes CO2e
Ready to run the numbers?
Open Global Warming Potential Calculator