Since the dawn of the Industrial Revolution, humanity has unleashed over 1.5 trillion tons of carbon dioxide (CO₂) into the Earth’s atmosphere. In 2019 alone, we added another 37 billion tons, marking a 50% increase from the year 2000 and nearly tripling the emissions from half a century ago. This surge isn’t limited to CO₂; other greenhouse gases like methane and nitrous oxide are also on the rise. In total, we emit 51 billion tons of carbon dioxide equivalents annually, and these numbers continue to climb. Yet, to mitigate the rapid pace of climate change, these emissions must be reduced to zero.
The repercussions of our actions are becoming increasingly severe and apparent. Each year seems to break new records for heatwaves, glacier melting, and diminishing ice at the North Pole. Of the last 22 years, 20 have been the hottest on record. The only viable solution to curb this swift climate change is a swift reduction in global emissions. However, while nations agree on this goal in theory, there is discord over who should shoulder the greatest responsibility.
In 2017, global CO₂ emissions reached approximately 36 billion tons, with Asia contributing over 50%. North America and Europe followed with 18% and 17%, respectively, while Africa, South America, and Oceania combined accounted for just 8%. China stands as the largest emitter, responsible for 27% of global emissions, followed by the USA at 15% and the European Union at around 10%. Together, these three regions contribute over half of the world’s CO₂ emissions, highlighting their crucial role in achieving carbon neutrality.
When examining emissions historically, the narrative shifts. The United States and the European Union surpass China, with the US responsible for 25% of historical emissions, primarily during the 20th century. The EU follows closely at 22%, while China’s contribution is just under 13%. This historical context challenges the notion that developing nations bear the primary responsibility for climate change.
On a per capita basis, the picture changes again. In 2017, Qatar led with 49 tons of CO₂ per person, followed by other oil-rich nations. Australians, Americans, and Canadians also have high per capita emissions, significantly above the global average. In contrast, China’s per capita emissions are above average but lower than many Western countries, despite being the largest overall emitter.
Historically, CO₂ emissions have been linked to a higher standard of living. Wealthier nations, with access to modern conveniences and technologies, tend to have larger carbon footprints. The richest half of countries are responsible for 86% of global emissions, while the poorer half accounts for only 14%. This disparity underscores the need for equitable solutions in addressing climate change.
Many affluent countries have benefited from centuries of industrialization and fossil fuel use. While their annual emissions may now be overshadowed by emerging economies like China and India, their historical contributions cannot be ignored. These nations possess the resources and technology to lead the development of low-carbon solutions, making them pivotal in the global effort to combat climate change.
However, the responsibility is not theirs alone. As the largest current emitter, China must also prioritize sustainable growth to facilitate a transition to a zero-carbon future. Climate change is a global issue, requiring collective action from all nations. While determining responsibility is complex, the imperative is clear: every country must strive to do its best, and the time to act is now.
This article is part of a series on climate change, supported by Breakthrough Energy, an initiative founded by Bill Gates to promote clean energy investments and innovations aimed at achieving net-zero carbon emissions. Special thanks to Our World in Data for their invaluable data and research contributions.
Calculate your personal carbon footprint using an online calculator. Reflect on your results and identify three areas where you can reduce your carbon emissions. Share your findings and proposed changes with the class.
Participate in a class debate on whether historical emissions or current emissions should bear more responsibility for climate change. Prepare arguments for both sides, considering the data presented in the article.
Research and present on a technology or innovation that aims to reduce carbon emissions. Explain how it works, its potential impact, and any challenges it faces in implementation.
Engage in a role-playing exercise where you represent a country in international climate negotiations. Discuss and negotiate emission reduction commitments, considering your country’s historical and current emissions.
Write a short story or essay imagining a day in a carbon-neutral world. Describe the changes in daily life, technology, and the environment. Share your vision with the class.
Carbon – A chemical element that is the primary component of fossil fuels and is released into the atmosphere as carbon dioxide when these fuels are burned. – The increase in carbon emissions from vehicles contributes significantly to global warming.
Emissions – The release of gases or particles into the atmosphere, often from industrial processes or vehicles, contributing to air pollution and climate change. – Reducing emissions from factories is crucial for improving air quality and combating climate change.
Climate – The long-term pattern of weather conditions in a region, including temperature, precipitation, and wind. – Scientists study climate data to understand how global warming is affecting different ecosystems.
Change – A transformation or modification in the environment, often referring to shifts in climate patterns due to human activities. – Climate change is causing more frequent and severe weather events around the world.
Responsibility – The duty to manage and protect the environment by making sustainable choices and reducing harmful impacts. – It is our responsibility to reduce waste and conserve resources for future generations.
Greenhouse – Referring to gases that trap heat in the atmosphere, contributing to the greenhouse effect and global warming. – Carbon dioxide and methane are two major greenhouse gases that contribute to the Earth’s rising temperatures.
Nations – Countries or states that have a role in international agreements and policies to address environmental issues. – Nations around the world are working together to create policies that reduce carbon emissions and promote sustainability.
Sustainable – Practices or methods that meet current needs without compromising the ability of future generations to meet their own needs, often by minimizing environmental impact. – Sustainable agriculture practices help preserve soil health and reduce water usage.
Energy – The capacity to do work, which can be derived from various sources such as fossil fuels, wind, solar, and nuclear power. – Transitioning to renewable energy sources is essential for reducing our carbon footprint.
Neutrality – The state of having no net release of carbon dioxide into the atmosphere, often achieved by balancing emissions with carbon offsets or reductions. – Achieving carbon neutrality is a goal for many companies aiming to minimize their environmental impact.
