Environment: Industry CO2 Emissions from Fossil Fuels, by year
YearEmissions,
in GtCO2
202237.15
201033.31
200025.50
199022.75
198019.48
197014.90
19609.39
19505.93
19404.86
19303.94
19203.52
19103.03
19001.95
18901.30
18800.85
18700.53
18600.33
18500.20
18400.12
18300.09
18200.05
18100.04
18000.03
17900.02
17800.02
17700.01
17600.01
17500.01
  • Region: Worldwide
  • Time period: 1750 to 2022
  • Published: Nov 2023

Data Analysis and Insights

Updated: Mar 27, 2024 | Published by: Statistico | About Us | Data sources

Rapid increase in emissions during the last decade

Global CO2 emissions from fossil fuels and industry saw a significant rise of 11.52%, from 33.31 GtCO2 in 2010 to 37.15 GtCO2 in 2022.

Acceleration in CO2 emissions since 1750

Emissions have increased by 3714%, from 0.01 GtCO2 in 1750 to 37.15 GtCO2 in 2022, indicating a rapid acceleration in industrial activity and fossil fuel use over the last 272 years.

Significant growth in the 20th century

The 20th century marked a period of significant growth, with emissions increasing from 1.95 GtCO2 in 1900 to 22.75 GtCO2 in 1990, an increase of over 1066%.

Doubling of emissions in recent decades

Emissions more than doubled, growing by 125%, from 14.90 GtCO2 in 1970 to 33.31 GtCO2 in 2010.

Exponential growth pattern observed

The data exhibits an exponential growth pattern, with emissions increasing more rapidly in recent decades. For instance, the increase from 9.39 GtCO2 in 1960 to 37.15 GtCO2 in 2022 highlights a nearly 296% growth.

Low growth rates in early industrial era

During the early industrial era, between 1750 and 1850, emissions grew from 0.01 GtCO2 to 0.20 GtCO2, marking a 1900% increase over a century, which is modest compared to recent growth rates.

Sharp increase in emissions post-1950

Post-1950, emissions escalated from 5.93 GtCO2 to 37.15 GtCO2 by 2022, illustrating a 526% surge, reflecting the massive industrialization and increased reliance on fossil fuels in the latter half of the 20th century and early 21st century.

Decadal growth trends showcase acceleration

Analyzing decadal growth trends reveals an accelerating pace of emissions. For example, the growth from the 1960s (9.39 GtCO2) to the 2020s (37.15 GtCO2) demonstrates how emissions have quadrupled over the span of six decades.

Frequently Asked Questions

How much did global CO2 emissions from fossil fuels and industry increase in the last decade?

In the last decade, global CO2 emissions from fossil fuels and industry saw an increase of 11.52%, from 33.31 GtCO2 to 37.15 GtCO2.

How much have emissions increased since 1750?

Since 1750, emissions have increased by 3714%, indicating a rapid acceleration in industrial activity and fossil fuel use.

What was the increase in emissions between 1900 and 1990?

Between 1900 and 1990, emissions increased by 1066%, from 1.95 GtCO2 to 22.75 GtCO2.

Terms and Definitions

Fossil fuels are non-renewable sources of energy that have developed in the Earth over millions of years. These fuels are made up of decomposed plants and animals that have been converted under pressure into coal, oil, or natural gas. They are primarily used for energy and transportation.

Industry refers to the production of goods or services within an economy. It includes all aspects of business operations, from production to distribution. The term 'industry' can also refer to a specific sector of the economy, such as the manufacturing, energy, or transport industries.

CO2 emissions, or carbon dioxide emissions, refer to the release of CO2 into the atmosphere. CO2 is a type of greenhouse gas that traps heat in the atmosphere, contributing to global warming. Emissions can occur through various activities, including burning fossil fuels, deforestation, and industrial processes.

A greenhouse gas is a gas that traps heat in the Earth’s atmosphere, contributing to the greenhouse effect and global warming. Key greenhouse gases include carbon dioxide, methane, and nitrous oxide, many of which are released by human activities like burning fossil fuels.

Global warming is the long-term increase in Earth's average temperature. It is primarily a result of human activities, particularly the emission of greenhouse gases into the atmosphere. Global warming can lead to extreme weather, rising sea levels, and other significant environmental impacts.

A carbon footprint is the total amount of greenhouse gases, particularly carbon dioxide and methane, that are generated by an individual, event, organization, or product, directly or indirectly.

Renewable energy refers to energy that is collected from resources which are naturally replenished on a human timescale, such as sunlight, wind, rain, tides, and geothermal heat. Unlike fossil fuels, they do not produce harmful emissions and are considered environmentally friendly.

Deforestation is the removal or clearing of forests, often to make way for other uses such as agriculture or logging. This process contributes to CO2 emissions as trees absorb CO2 and release oxygen, and when they are cut down, this stored carbon is released into the atmosphere.

Carbon sequestration is the process of capturing and storing atmospheric carbon dioxide. It is one method of reducing the amount of carbon dioxide in the atmosphere with the goal of mitigating the potential for global climate change. The process is typically seen in plants and in the ocean.
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