Understanding Global CO₂ Emissions in 2025.
Global CO₂ emissions (also known as carbon emissions or climate emissions) are central to the climate crisis. They account for the majority of anthropogenic greenhouse gas emissions, primarily from fossil fuel combustion. As of 2025, CO₂ emissions are rising again following post-pandemic rebounds, economic recovery, and energy demand surges (IEA, 2025).
Learn more about sustainability action on our Climate Action & Renewable Energy page.
What Are CO₂ Emissions and Why Do They Matter?
CO₂ (carbon dioxide) emissions result mainly from burning coal, oil, and natural gas for electricity, heating, and transportation. These gases trap heat, contributing to global warming. Persistently rising CO₂ emissions threaten efforts to cap temperature increases below 1.5°C, as outlined in the Paris Agreement (IPCC, 2023).
The continued rise in CO₂ emissions undermines efforts to keep global temperature increases below 1.5°C, as outlined in the Paris Agreement. Hence, understanding the sources and patterns of emissions is essential for designing effective mitigation strategies.
Global CO₂ Emissions: Key Statistics in 2025
Based on the latest IEA Global Energy Review (2025) and Our World in Data, here are some crucial insights:
Total Global CO₂ Emissions (2024): ~37.4 billion tonnes (Gt)
Top Emitters: China (~29%), USA (~14%), EU (~7%), India (~7%)
Energy Sector Dominance: Over 75% of emissions come from energy production and use.
Transport Emissions Rebound: Increased air and road travel post-pandemic has led to higher CO₂ outputs.
Coal Use Surge: Emerging economies are driving demand for coal due to energy security concerns.
Sector-Wise Breakdown of Emissions
1. Energy Production
Electricity and heat generation remains the largest contributor to CO₂ emissions. The burning of coal, especially in Asia, continues to be a major concern despite increasing renewable adoption.
2. Industry
Steel, cement, and chemical industries contribute significantly to emissions. Many are exploring carbon capture and storage (CCS) and hydrogen as solutions.
3. Transportation
Cars, trucks, ships, and planes collectively emit billions of tonnes annually. While electric vehicles (EVs) are growing, the transition is uneven globally.
4. Residential and Commercial Buildings
Heating, cooling, and appliance use result in indirect emissions through energy consumption, especially where grids rely on fossil fuels.
Regional Trends: Who Emits the Most CO₂?
| Region | Share of Global Emissions (2024) | Notes |
|---|---|---|
| China | ~29% | Heavy reliance on coal and industrial output |
| United States | ~14% | Declining emissions due to gas and renewables |
| India | ~7% | Rising rapidly; balancing growth and sustainability |
| EU | ~7% | Steady decline due to climate policies |
For more context, see our 7 Pillars of Sustainability including climate action.
Climate Targets vs. Reality
Although over 140 countries have set net-zero targets, most are currently off-track. According to the IEA, emissions must decline by over 40% by 2030 to stay aligned with the 1.5°C goal (IAE Net Zero Roadmap, 2021). However, in 2024, emissions grew by 1.1%, revealing a stark gap between policy ambitions and real-world action.
What Can Be Done? Solutions to Curb Global CO₂ Emissions
Accelerate Renewable Energy Deployment
Wind, solar, and hydro must expand at record rates to displace fossil fuels.
Electrify Everything
From transport to heating, shifting toward electrification powered by clean energy is vital.
Implement Carbon Pricing
Carbon taxes or cap-and-trade systems can make polluting more expensive and green alternatives more attractive (World Bank, 2024).
Innovate in Carbon Removal
Direct Air Capture (DAC), afforestation, and soil carbon sequestration offer ways to remove CO₂ from the atmosphere (IPCC, 2023).
Global Collaboration
Rich nations must support low-income countries through climate finance and technology transfer to ensure an equitable transition.
Calculate Your Carbon Footprint
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
Q1: What is the main source of global CO₂ emissions?
A1: The largest source is the energy sector, particularly fossil fuel combustion for electricity, heating, and transport.
Q2: Are CO₂ emissions still increasing in 2025?
A2: Yes. After a brief pandemic-related dip, emissions rose again due to increased energy demand and slow renewable uptake.
Q3: Which country emits the most CO₂?
A3: China is currently the largest emitter, contributing nearly 29% of global CO₂ emissions.
Q4: Can we reach net zero by 2050?
A4: It’s possible but highly challenging. Achieving net zero requires massive systemic changes and international cooperation (IEA, 2025).
Q5: How can individuals help reduce CO₂ emissions?
A5: By using public transport, switching to renewable energy, reducing meat consumption, and supporting climate-friendly policies (UN Climate Action).
