CO2 Emissions–Drivers Across Time and Countries

Carbon dioxide (CO₂) emissions from fossil fuels are the most important cause of global warming. Here we analyse recent data published by the International Energy Agency. CO₂ emission drivers like population, GDP, carbon intensity and energy efficiency are analysed for the time period from 1971 to 2015 for the whole world and five countries like USA, Japan, Germany, China and India. Carbon intensity of primary energy supply has not changed much, but population and GDP have increased sharply. Energy efficiency, including structural changes in economy have restricted CO₂ emissions to some extent, but continuous increase of GDP by developed countries will not leave much space for growth of developing countries. Emissions from road transport and residential sectors deserve special attention.