Greenhouse gas emissions in the U.S. 1990-2021
In 2021, greenhouse gas emissions in the United States totaled 6.34 billion metric tons of carbon dioxide equivalent (GtCO₂e). This was an increase of some 5.2 percent in comparison to 2020, when emissions dropped as a result of the COVID-19-related lockdowns and restrictions imposed throughout the year.
Annual U.S. greenhouse gas emissions peaked in 2007, at 7.51 GtCO₂e. Since then, emissions have fallen by over 15 percent. In light of the climate crisis, the U.S. has set the target of reaching net-zero greenhouse gas emissions by 2050. To achieve this goal, emissions will need to be cut by at least 40 percent below 1990 levels by 2030.
Annual U.S. greenhouse gas emissions peaked in 2007, at 7.51 GtCO₂e. Since then, emissions have fallen by over 15 percent. In light of the climate crisis, the U.S. has set the target of reaching net-zero greenhouse gas emissions by 2050. To achieve this goal, emissions will need to be cut by at least 40 percent below 1990 levels by 2030.
