Carbon dioxide emissions in Canada 1960-2020

Canada’s carbon dioxide emissions from fossil fuel combustion and industrial processes totaled 536 million metric tons in 2020. This was a reduction of nearly eight percent compared with 2019 levels. This dramatic decline was caused by the outbreak of COVID-19, and its subsequent impacts.

Energy related emissions

A large percentage of global greenhouse gas emissions are derived from the production and consumption of energy. In Canada, energy-related emissions account for an even higher share of total emissions due to extreme temperatures, large land area, and dispersed populations. Energy sector greenhouse gas emissions in Canada amount to roughly 600 million metric tons of CO2 equivalent each year. Oil and gas sector emissions in Canada were more than 190 million metric tons in 2019.

Which Canadian province is the largest GHG emitter?

Alberta is the largest emitter of greenhouse gas emissions in Canada. Oil production in Alberta contributes to the province’s high emission levels, especially under periods of increased oil sands production. However, technological and efficiency improvements have helped reduce the oil sands emissions per barrel.