Global fossil-fuel CO₂ emissions expected to reach record 38.1 billion tonnes in 2025
GS3Economy · S&T · Environment · Security· Climate change & international agreements· Prelims + Mains·
Climate change and decarbonization: a GS3 and Environment & Ecology case study on global emission trends.
Why in news
The Global Carbon Budget 2025 report highlights that global fossil-fuel CO₂ emissions are projected to hit a record 38.1 billion tonnes in 2025, with China and the US leading as top emitters.
Background
The Global Carbon Budget 2025 reports that China accounts for 31.8% of global fossil-fuel CO₂ emissions, while the United States contributes 12.7%. India's contribution stands at 8.3%, reflecting a 4% increase in 2024 despite lower per-capita emissions.
Facts for Prelims
- FactGlobal fossil-fuel CO₂ emissions are projected to reach 38.1 billion tonnes in 2025.
- FactChina accounts for 31.8% of global fossil-fuel CO₂ emissions as of 2024 data.
- FactThe United States contributes 12.7% of global fossil-fuel CO₂ emissions.
- FactIndia's fossil-fuel CO₂ emissions increased by 4% in 2024.
- BodyThe Paris Agreement (2015) aims to limit global warming to well below 2°C and pursue efforts to keep it below 1.5°C.
Prelims practice question
According to the Global Carbon Budget 2025, what percentage of global fossil-fuel CO2 emissions does China account for?
- (a)31.8%
- (b)4%
- (c)12.7%
- (d)8.3%
Show answer
Answer: (a) 31.8% — The note states that China accounts for 31.8% of global fossil-fuel CO2 emissions.
For Mains
Q. Discuss the challenges faced by emerging economies like India in balancing rapid industrial growth with the decarbonization targets set under the Paris Agreement.
Dimensions to cover in your answer
- Equity-based transition: Balancing India's lower per-capita emissions against its rising absolute carbon footprint.
- Industrial decarbonization: Addressing the high carbon intensity of coal-powered electricity and steel production in manufacturing hubs.
- Climate-induced risks: Mitigating extreme weather events like floods and wildfires caused by unequivocal human-induced global warming.
Keywords: Decarbonization · Paris Agreement · Carbon Budget · Greenhouse Gas Emissions · Climate Mitigation · Energy Transition
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