Global carbon dioxide emissions are expected to hit a record high in 2018, despite calls from climate scientists and international organizations such as the United Nations for cuts. Globally, fossil fuels are expected to emit 2.7 percent more CO2 in 2018 than in 2017. Last year, these emissions amounted to 9.9 gigatons of carbon. 2018 will mark the second consecutive year that global warming emissions have increased significantly since the 2014-2015 calm.
The Fourth National Climate Assessment predicts dire consequences for the economy, environment and public health, in particular in the United States, if the country does not significantly reduce emissions. The US currently has the highest per capita emissions in the world, at 4.4 metric tons of carbon per person in 2017. Total US CO2 emissions are set to rise by 2.5 percent, despite the country's vigorous transition to renewable energy.
USA is the leader in global carbon emissions
The largest increase in carbon dioxide emissions from fossil fuel combustion is expected in 2018 in India, up 6.3 percent from 2017. This is partly due to rapid economic growth and efforts to provide electricity to people living in rural areas. Per capita emissions in India are still below the global average.
In China, meanwhile, that figure will grow by 4.7 percent in 2018, with the country being the largest carbon source overall. Both India and China are trying to move away from coal as a source of energy. By contrast, the European Union will cut emissions by 0.7% in 2018 thanks to significant investments in renewable energy sources.
Ilya Khel