Global CO₂ Emissions from Light Duty Vehicles
In 2022, global carbon dioxide (CO₂) emissions from cars and vans rose by approximately 1.4% compared to the previous year, reaching 3.53 billion metric tons (GtCO₂). This increase marks a continuation of the emissions trend from light duty vehicles, which have grown by 12% overall between 2010 and 2022.
Historical Emissions Trends
The historical data shows a steady increase in CO₂ emissions from the transportation sector:
- 2010: 3.14 GtCO₂
- 2011: 3.13 GtCO₂
- 2012: 3.17 GtCO₂
- 2013: 3.27 GtCO₂
- 2014: 3.31 GtCO₂
- 2015: 3.42 GtCO₂
- 2016: 3.5 GtCO₂
- 2017: 3.55 GtCO₂
- 2018: 3.59 GtCO₂
- 2019: 3.61 GtCO₂
- 2020: 3.2 GtCO₂
- 2021: 3.48 GtCO₂
- 2022: 3.53 GtCO₂
Key Observations
- The overall trend shows a 12% increase in emissions from 2010 to 2022.
- A significant drop occurred in 2020, likely due to global pandemic-related restrictions.
- Emissions quickly rebounded in 2021 and continued to rise in 2022.
The data highlights the ongoing challenge of reducing CO₂ emissions from the transportation sector, particularly from light duty vehicles. As the world continues to grapple with climate change, understanding these emission trends is crucial for developing effective mitigation strategies.
Source: IEA, Carbon dioxide (CO₂) emissions from cars and vans worldwide from 2010 to 2022 (in billion metric tons), Statista.
