Characterization of spatiotemporal relationship of cross-region transfer of carbon emissions from transportation system in pearl river delta

The complex cross-region transfer relationship of carbon emissions from transportation increases the difficulty of achieving the overall goal of carbon emission reduction. This paper calculates the transportation carbon emissions from 2011 to 2020 in the Pearl River Delta. Based on an improved gravity model, a spatiotemporal relationship network for cross-region transfer is constructed. The overall characteristics, individual characteristics, and block models of the network are analysed with the social network analysis method. Through these efforts, the spatiotemporal relationship of cross-region transfer of carbon emissions is depicted. The findings indicate that the Pearl River Delta exhibits complex spatiotemporal patterns of transportation-related carbon emissions. With increasing network density and stable spatial correlations, cross-regional transfers are facilitated. Core cities like Guangzhou and Shenzhen play pivotal roles, while distinct city blocks exhibit stable yet varied participation. This highlights the need for coordinated, cross-regional emission reduction mechanisms that consider geographical and economic factors.