Global Carbon Dioxide Emissions from Fuel Combustion

Carbon dioxide (CO2) emissions from fuel combustion represent the majority of greenhouse gas (GHG) emissions from human activity in Canada and around the world. CO2 from fossil fuel combustion represented over 75% of Canada’s GHG emissions in 2009.

According to the International Energy Agency, Canada’s CO2 emissions in 2009 accounted for approximately 2% of global emissions.

Canada’s share of total emissions, like that of other developed countries, is expected to decline in the face of the expected rapid emissions growth from developing countries, particularly China and India.[1] Between 1990 and 2009, global emissions of CO2 have increased by 38%.

Distribution of world carbon dioxide emissions from fuel combustion, 2009

Distribution of world carbon dioxide emissions from fuel combustion, 2009

Note: The indicator only reports energy-related carbon dioxide emissions from fuel combustion. Emissions from non-energy-related sources, gas flaring, and emissions of CH4, N2O, HFC, PFC, and SF6 are not included in the indicator.
Source: International Energy Agency (2011) Key World Energy Statistics

Related indicators

Other information


[1] Environment Canada (2011) Canada’s Emissions Trends.