<p>Land use is a critical driver of the sharp rise in global greenhouse gas emissions. Shaped by the interplay of socio-economic actions and natural processes, carbon emissions stemming from land use exhibit greater complexity than those originating solely within natural ecosystems. While previous research has examined carbon emissions associated with land use, it has largely concentrated on horizontal dimensions, leaving the vertical dimension relatively underexplored. To bridge this gap, this study proposes the innovative concept of “land gradient use” and constructs a theoretical framework to assess its impact on carbon emissions within the Central Yunnan Urban Agglomeration. The research reveals that geographical vertical zonation imposes significant constraints on land use, leading to a stepped distribution of land types as well as highlighting the land gradient use pattern. Additionally, there has been a continuous upward trend in carbon emissions linked to land gradient use, displaying a spatial distribution marked by distinct stratified gradients. The carbon emissions effects of land gradient use are clearly observable. In the I–II gradient levels, both carbon emissions and emission intensity exhibit a continuous increase, accompanied by emission pressure and a persistent carbon ecological deficit. In III–V gradient levels, carbon absorption and absorption intensity fluctuate with reduced carbon pressure, reflecting a state of carbon ecological surplus. PPI, ITL, UL, PD, and cropland area emerge as the core influencing factors of carbon emissions from land gradient use. These findings not only illuminate the complex connections among carbon emissions and changes in land gradient use, but also offer scientific evidence for developing region-specific policies and contributing to the early realization of the “dual carbon” goals.</p>