Synergies of reducing greenhouse gases and atmospheric nitrogen pollutants in China

Climate change and environmental degradation driven by greenhouse gases (GHGs) and reactive nitrogen (N_r) emissions are intensifying globally. As a major emitter of both, China faces double pressures of GHGs and N_r mitigation to achieve carbon neutrality and sustainability. Here, we employ a multi-model framework to quantify the potential and synergies of reducing GHG (CO₂, CH₄, and N₂O) and atmospheric N_r pollutants (NO_x and NH₃). Our results indicate that, by 2050, a strong co-control solution could reduce China’s GHG emissions by 88% (80%–101%) and atmospheric N_r pollutants by 67% (50%–80%), delivering societal benefits of US$959 (US$499–US$1,419) billion, five times the implementation costs. Meanwhile, the agriculture sector will emerge as a key contributor to mitigation efforts, particularly after 2030, with its integrated abatement potential surpassing that of industry while offering superior cost-effectiveness. These findings underscore the critical need to dynamically shift mitigation priorities post-carbon peak to boost zero carbon and clean air in China.