Identifying Professional Scholars in CPCN Research: A Spatial Analysis of Talent Density and Distribution Across Provinces in China

Professional scholars in science, engineering, and technology fields focusing on carbon peaking and carbon neutrality (CPCN) strategy constitute a vital force in advancing the national agenda for sustainable development. Investigating their spatial distribution and patterns of agglomeration holds significant practical value for understanding the current state of talent development and for promoting scientific and technological progress in CPCN. This study applies scientometric methods to identify professional scholars engaged in CPCN related research across science and engineering disciplines in China. Inspired by methodologies in quantitative geography, the study introduces talent density and the Theil Index as key metrics to analyze disciplinary talent density and distribution disparities at the provincial level. The findings reveal China's leading provinces in CPCN research and illustrate the spatial distribution of research talent across different disciplines and regions. It is recommended to fully leverage the research strengths of provinces with significant talent advantages across various disciplinary fields to drive the nationwide development of science and technology related to CPCN. Particular attention should be given to the pivotal role of the discipline of chemistry in advancing CPCNrelated technologies, and provinces with disciplinary strengths should be encouraged to further develop research in this area.