Major Contributors to Global Emissions in 2023
A recent analysis by the Carbon Majors database reveals that over half of the world’s greenhouse gas emissions in 2023 can be attributed to just 36 fossil fuel and cement producers. This finding underscores the significant role that a small number of companies play in global climate challenges.
Increase in Emissions from Top Producers
The report indicates that emissions linked to the largest oil, gas, coal, and cement companies have risen in 2023, with 16 out of the top 20 emitters being state-owned enterprises. Notably, the top five state-owned emitters — Saudi Aramco, Coal India, CHN Energy, National Iranian Oil Company, and Jinneng Group — collectively accounted for nearly 20% of total global emissions.
In contrast, the five leading investor-owned companies — ExxonMobil, Chemical, Shell, TotalEnergies, and BP — were responsible for about 5% of the emissions for the year.
Challenges in Holding State-Owned Companies Accountable
Emmett Connaire, a senior analyst at Carbon Majors, highlighted the difficulties in addressing emissions from state-owned companies. He stated, “For state-owned companies, it’s not like western governments can sue them for their emissions as they’re under direct control of nation states.” This situation complicates accountability efforts, particularly as nations scale back on their climate commitments.
Historical Context and Broader Implications
The Carbon Majors report draws on emissions data dating back to 1854, analyzing the production and combustion emissions from 180 primary fossil fuel and cement producers up to 2023. This rich dataset has been pivotal for activists using legal action against fossil fuel companies and has influenced climate-related legislation worldwide.
For instance, Vermont has pioneered legal action against oil firms for climate change damages by utilizing findings from the Carbon Majors database as evidence in its “climate superfund” law.
Country-Specific Emission Trends
Despite a notable rise in renewable energy production in China over the past year, the country’s companies were among the largest contributors to global emissions in 2023, responsible for 17% of the total. This is largely attributed to the ongoing expansion of coal, which remains the largest source of global emissions.
While emissions from coal and cement have surged, natural gas emissions saw a decline of nearly 4%, and emissions from oil companies remained stable. Regionally, emissions increased the most in:
- Australia: 11%
- Asia: 6%
- North America: 3%
Conversely, Europe experienced a decrease of 4%, while emissions in the Middle East rose by less than 1%.
Conclusion
The findings from the Carbon Majors database serve as a critical reminder of the disproportionate impact that a limited number of fossil fuel and cement producers have on the global climate crisis. As the world navigates its climate commitments, the challenge remains to hold these entities accountable while mitigating their environmental footprint.
