GWP is calculated by comparing the cumulative radiative forcing of a pollutant over a specific time period to the equivalent mass of CO2.

 Global warming potential (GWP) is a measurement that compares the ability of greenhouse gases (GHGs) to trap heat in the atmosphere relative to carbon dioxide (CO2). GWP is a key factor in climate policy and environmental science, as it helps scientists and policymakers prioritize efforts to reduce emissions. 

Here are some things to know about GWP:

How it's calculated

GWP is calculated by comparing the cumulative radiative forcing of a pollutant over a specific time period to the equivalent mass of CO2. 

What it's based on

GWP is based on three factors:

The gas's ability to absorb infrared radiation 

The wavelengths of radiation the gas absorbs 

The gas's atmospheric lifetime 

How it's expressed

GWP is expressed as a multiple of the radiation that would be absorbed by the same mass of CO2. CO2 has a GWP of 1.