CO₂ Emissions by Country

As of 2024, China has the highest CO₂ Emissions at 13.1K Mt CO₂e. Data covers 203 countries. Source: World Bank / EDGAR.

The global average CO₂ Emissions is 187.08 Mt CO₂e based on data from 203 countries (2024). Source: World Bank / EDGAR.

Tuvalu reports the lowest CO₂ Emissions at 0 Mt CO₂e (2024).

Countries are ranked by their most recent reported value for CO₂ Emissions, sourced from World Bank / EDGAR. Reporting years can differ slightly between countries due to publication lag.

CO₂ emissions are carbon dioxide gases released into the atmosphere, primarily through the combustion of fossil fuels like coal, oil, and natural gas. This measurement also includes emissions from cement production and gas flaring. Because carbon dioxide traps heat, it is the most significant greenhouse gas contributing to long-term global climate change and rising temperatures.

China currently has the highest CO₂ emissions, totaling approximately 13125 million metric tons or 13.12 trillion kg (28.93 trillion lb). This high volume is largely driven by the country's massive industrial sector, significant reliance on coal for electricity generation, and its role as a global manufacturing hub for a wide range of international goods.

Tuvalu has the lowest CO₂ emissions among the 203 countries and territories tracked, with recent data showing 0 kg (0 lb). This minimal carbon footprint is due to the nation's small population, lack of heavy industry, and limited use of fossil fuels compared to larger, more industrialized economies around the world.

Emissions are estimated by multiplying data from human activities, such as fuel combustion and industrial processes, by specific emission factors. These factors represent the average amount of CO₂ released per unit of activity. Statistical data from energy balances, cement production reports, and gas flaring records provide the primary inputs for these comprehensive global calculations.