Carbon emissions are human-caused greenhouse gases that are released into the atmosphere when fossil fuels like coal, oil, and natural gas are burned for energy. These gases trap heat in the atmosphere and warm the planet, which is already happening. This change is causing many problems, such as melting ice caps and rising sea levels, extreme weather events, and disrupted habitats and migration patterns.
Atmospheric CO2 concentrations have been steadily increasing since the start of the Industrial Revolution. This increase is largely due to the burning of fossil fuels for energy, and also from land-use changes and deforestation.
Using the map below, you can explore the world’s emissions by country and over time. It’s clear that prosperity and energy choices make a big difference: for example, France, Portugal, and the UK have much lower per-capita emissions than Germany or the Netherlands, even though their countries have similar standards of living.
The US is a major emitter of carbon dioxide, producing more than 80 percent of all energy-related emissions. Most of these are from the production of electricity, with the largest percentage coming from the burning of coal and petroleum. Transportation and industry are also large emitters of CO2, while agriculture contributes less.
Individuals can significantly reduce their own emissions by making smarter lifestyle choices. For example, a person’s footprint can be reduced by driving less, buying and flying more sustainably, and choosing to grow food locally. Many sustainable companies are working hard to lower their CO2 emissions and help mitigate climate change.
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