Global historical CO₂ emissions from fossil fuels and industry 1750-2022

Global carbon dioxide (CO₂) emissions produced by fossil fuel combustion and industrial processes have seen a dramatic rise since the birth of the industrial revolution. CO₂ emissions began to rise more steeply from the 1950s, and by 2000 had reached 25.5 billion metric tons (GtCO₂). Emissions have soared by more than 45 percent since then, reaching 37.15 GtCO₂ in 2022. Global CO₂ emissions are projected to have reached record levels in 2023.

What is carbon dioxide?

CO₂ is a colorless, naturally occurring gas that is released after people and animals inhale oxygen. It is a greenhouse gas, meaning it absorbs and releases thermal radiation which in turn creates the “greenhouse effect”. In addition to other greenhouse gases, CO₂ is also a major contributor to the ability of the Earth to maintain a habitable temperature. Without CO₂ and other greenhouse gases, Earth would be too cold to live on. However, while CO₂ alone is not a harmful gas, the abundance of it is what causes climate change. The increased use of electricity, transportation, and deforestation in human society have resulted in the increased emissions of CO₂. This in turn has seen a rise in earth’s temperature.

Who are the largest emitters worldwide?

China is the biggest carbon polluter worldwide, having released more than 11 GtCO₂ in 2022. This was more than the combined emissions of the United States and India, the second and third-largest emitters that year, respectively.