In the past decade, with the detrimental impacts of climate change becoming increasingly apparent worldwide, numerous countries have finally begun to prioritise their countries’ carbon footprints. Wealthy nations such as the UK, Germany, and the US have made remarkable strides in reducing their emissions, aiming to achieve net-zero goals and mitigate the catastrophic consequences of this human-induced phenomenon.
However, despite these efforts, global carbon emissions have continued to rise, experiencing a 14% increase over the past ten years according to the World Bank (2022). Remarkably, 71% of countries have witnessed a surge in their carbon footprints during this period.
Our comprehensive analysis aims to identify the countries most responsible for this trend and provide an explanation for the rising emissions they generate.
Growing Carbon Footprint of Countries
China
China, with a staggering carbon footprint of 11.7 billion tonnes, holds the title for the largest carbon footprint in the world. This comes as no surprise considering it is the most populous country globally; however, what is astonishing is that China’s emissions exceed the combined total of the next seven countries on the list.
China surpassed the United States as the top emitter in 2005, and within just 12 years, its CO2e emissions surpassed that of the US by more than double. Unfortunately, there has been no slowdown in China’s emission trajectory.
The nation’s 1,058 coal plants account for over half of the world’s coal capacity, contributing to a staggering eight billion tonnes of greenhouse gases from coal consumption alone. Additionally, China’s oil consumption generates 2.3 billion tonnes of emissions, surpassing the total emissions of Brazil.
Overall, China emits greenhouse gases at a rate 2,885 times higher than the United Kingdom, although this disparity is somewhat mitigated by China’s population, which is 21 times larger than that of the UK.
India
India, another vast country with a population of well over a billion people, is experiencing rapid economic expansion and shows no signs of slowing down. Its current carbon footprint stands at 3.4 billion tonnes, making it three and a half times smaller than China’s. However, what is concerning is that India’s carbon footprint is growing at a faster rate compared to China.
Since assuming power in 2014, Prime Minister Narendra Modi has overseen an increase in India’s carbon footprint. Despite this, at COP26 in 2021, he pledged that India would achieve net-zero emissions by 2070. Unfortunately, this commitment represents a lack of ambition, considering India’s position as the world’s third-largest emitter. We had hoped for more from this influential nation.
Brazil
Brazil, with a carbon footprint of 2.2 billion tonnes, has experienced a minimal increase of 2.9% in the past decade. While this may initially appear promising, there are reasons for concern.
In 2011, Brazil’s carbon footprint significantly decreased to 1.27 billion tonnes, marking a remarkable 41% reduction from the previous year. This achievement suggested a promising future for the country’s emissions trajectory.
However, under the presidency of far-right leader Jair Bolsonaro, Brazil’s carbon footprint began to grow once more, presenting a larger problem. It is crucial to acknowledge that the world needs to substantially reduce emissions rather than maintain the status quo, making this trend worrisome in the global context.
Russia
Russia, with a carbon footprint of 2 billion tonnes, has experienced a 15% increase in the past 10 years. With a carbon footprint equivalent to 14 tonnes per person, it stands as one of the highest in the world, and it may actually be higher.
One concerning aspect is that Russia has repeatedly revised its own estimates, resulting in a significant underestimation of its methane emissions. There appears to be little enthusiasm for addressing this issue.
This lack of concern can be attributed to complicated cultural reasons, but a significant factor is Russia’s heavy reliance on its fossil fuel-powered energy industry. As the second-largest gas producer and third-largest oil producer globally, Russia exports a substantial amount of fuel, leading to immense revenues and a disproportionate level of influence for the Kremlin.
Saudi Arabia
Saudi Arabia, with a carbon footprint of 638 million tonnes, has witnessed a significant increase of 42% in the past 10 years. While there are countries such as Indonesia, Iran, and Mexico that emit more greenhouse gases, none of them can match Saudi Arabia’s astonishing figure of 18.3 tonnes per person.
This exceptionally high carbon footprint is primarily attributed to Saudi Arabia’s position as a major producer of fossil fuels, from which it shows no intention of transitioning away.
In a rather contradictory move, just before announcing its aim for net-zero emissions by 2060, Saudi Arabia’s national oil company, Saudi Aramco, expressed its plans to increase oil production capacity by 2030. This decision raises concerns, considering Saudi Arabia already holds the title of the world’s largest oil exporter.
The Kingdom has asserted that oil revenues, constituting 60% of its budget, will support its transition to renewable energy. However, doubts arise regarding the feasibility and ethical implications of this claim.
Summary
The carbon footprints of the majority of countries are on the rise. Apart from Europe and the US, only a handful of nations have achieved reductions in their greenhouse gas emissions. Countries like Japan, New Zealand, Israel, and the Democratic Republic of Congo deserve recognition for their efforts in at least stabilizing their emissions.
Global action is urgently needed to address the climate crisis. However, it is crucial for the UK to take responsibility and assist other nations in their decarbonization efforts. Collaboration and support among countries are essential to drive meaningful change and combat the challenges posed by climate change.