List of Top 10 Countries By Carbon Dioxide Emissions

List of Countries By Carbon Dioxide Emissions: The list of countries that emit the most carbon dioxide in 2024 includes China, the United States, India, Russia, Japan, Indonesia, Iran, Germany, South Korea, and Saudi Arabia.

Carbon footprints are not only harmful to human lives; they also leave a deep impact on the atmosphere for several decades. It causes several health concerns among people. These countries are significant contributors to pollution, attributed to their industrial revolution periods and heavy use of fossil fuels.

In this article, we will look into the list of countries by carbon dioxide emissions in 2024 along with the carbon emission rate.

Countries with the Highest Carbon Dioxide Emissions in the World

China tops the list of the top emitters of CO₂ in the world. These are followed by other big nations like the US and India. Russia and Japan also topped the list for several years as some of the top carbon emitter nations. CO₂ emissions in these regions are mainly attributed to the large-scale industrial activities in these nations. This article will discuss the list of these top CO₂-emitting countries in detail below.

Top 10 Countries By Carbon Dioxide Emissions

The list of countries with the most carbon emissions to the least carbon emissions are:

Country	Carbon Emissions (in million tons)
China	12667.43
United States	4853.78
India	2693.03
Russia	1909.04
Japan	1082.65
Indonesia	692.24
Iran	686.42
Germany	673.60
South Korea	635.50
Saudi Arabia	607.91

Largest Carbon Dioxide Emitting Country – China

As of 2024, China tops the list of the world’s largest emitters of carbon dioxide.

• Its per capita emission is 12667.43mtCO2e.
• China’s rapid industrialization and economic growth have contributed to its carbon footprint.
• Despite significant investments in renewable energy, the sheer scale of China’s economy and energy consumption continues to drive high levels of CO₂ emissions.

Second Largest Carbon Dioxide Emitting Country – United States

The United States is second on the list of top countries on the list of countries that produce carbon dioxide.

• Its carbon emissions per capita are 4853.78 mtCO2e.
• There are several factors behind this large emission – such as reliance on fossil fuels for energy production, industrial activities, and transportation.
• However, the U.S. has also seen an increase in developing technologies to help in the transition towards cleaner energy sources, with a growing emphasis on renewable energy and carbon reduction initiatives.

Third Largest Carbon Dioxide Emitting Country – India

India is a significant contributor to global carbon emissions.

• Its carbon emissions per capita are 2693.03 mtCO2e.
• Its large population and booming industry have made the nation a significant contributor.
• It is also to be noted that India’s energy production is heavily dependent on coal, which multiplies the emissions of carbon for decades.
• India also faces the challenge of meeting its energy needs for development and is working towards adopting more sustainable practices and reducing its carbon footprint.

Fourth Largest Carbon Dioxide Emitting Country- Russia

Russia’s carbon dioxide emissions are caused by its large fossil fuel reserves and energy industries.

• Its per capita emissions of carbon dioxide is 1909.04 mtCO2e.
• It is also to be noted that the nation is covered with trees to reduce CO2 production; however, its industrial activities and energy production contribution are beyond repair.
• Russia aims to balance economic development with environmental safety in the near future.

Fifth Largest Carbon Dioxide Emitting Country – Japan

Japan is also a leading emitter in Asia.

• It emits 1082.65 MtCO2e of carbon dioxide per capita.
• It is also to be noted that Japan’s dependence on fossil fuels has increased, especially after the Fukushima nuclear disaster.
• This event led to a shift away from nuclear power.
• Despite efforts to increase energy efficiency and invest in renewable energy, it faces challenges in reducing its carbon footprint while meeting its growing energy demands.

Sixth Largest Carbon Dioxide Emitting Country- Indonesia

Indonesia’s per capita carbon emissions are 692.24 MtCO2e.

• Its energy production heavily relies on coal power.
• Indonesia’s energy supply rapidly increased from 2000 to 2001, and it has been estimated that there has been an almost 60 per cent increase in carbon emissions.
• In 2021, the carbon emissions were around 600 million tonnes which increased to 619 million tonnes in 2024.
• However, Indonesia aims to reduce its emissions to zero by 2060.
• This can be done through energy diversification and focusing on natural resources.

Seventh Largest Carbon Dioxide Emitting Country- Iran

In Iran, there has been an increase of 2.22 percent in CO2 emissions every year.

• The emission rates in 2021 were approximately 710.8 million tonnes.
• The high levels of CO2 emissions have affected Iran significantly, especially in northern and central Iran.
• Efforts have been initiated to pay attention to the environmental and social impacts of high levels of CO2 emissions.
• Iranian policymakers are working towards establishing sustainable developments and improving efficiency in their industrial and commercial sectors.

Eighth Largest Carbon Dioxide Emitting Country – Germany

As the largest economy in Europe, Germany’s carbon emissions result from its industrial activities.

• German industry also relies heavily on coal for energy.
• The country has made efforts to transition to renewable energy sources through its Energiewende policy.
• Nevertheless, Germany needs help balancing maintaining a well-organized industrial sector with meeting emission reduction targets.

Ninth Largest Carbon Dioxide Emitting Country – South Korea

South Korea has high carbon dioxide emissions, especially through its expansive industry.

• Like many developed nations, South Korea is working towards a more sustainable future by investing in renewable energy.
• It also sets targets for emissions reduction.

Tenth Largest Carbon Dioxide Emitting Country – Saudi Arabia

As a major oil-producing nation, Saudi Arabia’s economy heavily relies on the oil and gas sector for the nation’s economic growth and development.

• The carbon emissions per capita in Saudi Arabia are 607.91 MtCO2e.
• This contributes significantly to its carbon emissions.
• The country is gradually exploring ways to diversify its energy production and recognizing the need for sustainable practices.
• All these efforts address environmental concerns and global climate change goals.

Conclusion: List of Countries by Carbon Dioxide Emissions

The leading emitters of carbon dioxide play a crucial role in increasing the carbon footprint in the world. It is thus necessary for these countries to adopt sustainable ways of producing energy. These nations should come together to collaborate in investing in renewable sources of energy to limit carbon emissions and work responsibly towards a healthier and pollution-free world. This will ensure that the future generation lives in a world that is safe and sustainable.

People Also Read:

• Understanding Carbon Footprint: Its Effects and Reduction Strategies
• Top 10 List of Greenhouse Gas Emissions Countries 2024
• Global Warming
• Climate Change and Its Impact

FAQs on List of Countries by Carbon Dioxide Emissions

Which country ranks the highest in CO₂ emissions?

As of the latest data, China ranks highest in CO₂ emissions globally. The country’s rapid industrialization, reliance on coal for energy, and extensive manufacturing activities contribute significantly to its substantial carbon footprint, making it the world’s largest emitter of carbon dioxide.

Which country ranks the lowest in CO₂ emissions?

Bhutan, known for its commitment to environmental conservation and reliance on renewable energy sources, is one example of a country with relatively low CO₂ emissions.

What is the rank of India in CO₂ emissions?

India ranks as one of the top emitters of carbon dioxide globally, typically occupying the third position behind China and the United States. The country’s significant population, rapid industrialization, and reliance on coal for energy contribute to its substantial carbon footprint.

Which country is expected to increase its CO₂ significantly in 2025?

India is expected to experience increased carbon emissions as it undergoes rapid industrialization and urbanization. India’s growing energy demands and the continued use of coal for power generation may contribute to a significant rise in CO₂ emissions in the coming years.

What are the Top 10 Emitters of CO₂ in the world?

The top 10 emitters of carbon dioxide globally are China, the United States, India, Russia, Japan, Germany, South Korea, Iran, Saudi Arabia, and Canada. These countries contribute significantly to the world’s carbon footprint, with variations in emissions driven by factors such as industrialization, energy production, and economic activities.