Global CO₂ emissions change 1990-2022, by country

In 2022, CO₂ emissions in the United Kingdom were 41 percent lower than in 1990, while emissions in the United States were around 2.6 percent lower. In contrast, emissions in China and India were more than 300 percent higher in 2022 than in 1990 due to economic growth.

Why have emissions in the UK dropped?

Since 1990, the UK has achieved the fastest CO₂ reductions in the G7. Much of the UK’s emissions cuts are attributable to the country’s phase-out of coal-fired power, which now accounts for roughly two percent of UK power generation, and the shift toward natural gas and renewable energy sources. 

Historical reductions in CO₂ emissions  

In addition to climate policies, global events play a major role in emissions trends. Global CO₂ emissions were down 4.9 percent in 2020 compared to 2019, as polluting industries were temporarily disrupted throughout the year as a result of the coronavirus pandemic. The global financial crisis in 2009 also had a significant impact on emissions.