CO2 Emissions Per Capita Put in Perspective

Tonnes of CO2e shown by category. Data from Berkeley’s Cool Climate Calculator

The average US citizen is responsible for 19 tonnes of greenhouse gas (GHG) emissions each year. That’s roughly equivalent to the weight of 12 cars. To break it down further that’s 115 pounds (51kg) of greenhouse gas emissions each day. If you’re interested, I have some images that help further put this in perspective in “You are more powerful than you think. Act Accordingly”.

Although the range is extreme, the global average GHG emissions per person is around 6 tonnes. The EU and China are both under 10.

…we need to get to net zero by 2050.

Read other content from the “Alarming” section or see all sections of the What on EARTH?! sustainability newsletter.