Context
- India registered the largest absolute increase in global greenhouse gas (GHG) emissions in 2024, contributing 165 MtCO₂e to the global rise.
• Despite this increase, India’s per capita emissions remained less than half the global average, highlighting the country’s relatively low-emission lifestyle.
• The data is based on the UNEP’s Emissions Gap Report 2025 and The Hindu Data Team’s analysis.
Key Highlights
- Global Emissions Trend
- 57,700 MtCO₂e of anthropogenic emissions released globally in 2024 — the highest on record.
• Fossil CO₂ accounted for 69% of all emissions.
• CH₄ (methane) contributed 16%, N₂O 6%, and LULUCF CO₂ 8%.
- India’s Emissions Profile
- India became the third-largest GHG emitter in absolute terms (after China & U.S.).
• Contributed 165 MtCO₂e to the global annual rise — highest among all nations.
• India’s per capita GHG emissions: 3 tCO₂e, less than half of the global average of 6.4 tCO₂e.
• Per capita emissions grew 3.3% between 2023–24.
- Sector-wise Emissions
- Power generation remains the largest component of India’s fossil CO₂ emissions.
• Globally, GHG emissions mainly came from:
- Energy–Power (27%)
- Industry (13%)
- Transport (13%)
- Buildings (6%)
- Agriculture (11%)
- LULUCF (land use) (8%)
- Contributors to the Global Emission Increase (2024)
- India: +165 MtCO₂e
• China: +63.5 MtCO₂e
• International Transport: +22.4 MtCO₂e
• U.S.: –126 MtCO₂e (decline)
• EU: –58.7 MtCO₂e
Relevant Prelims Points
- Nationally Determined Contributions (NDCs) under Paris Agreement.
• National Action Plan on Climate Change (NAPCC).
• Renewable Energy Mission (500 GW by 2030).
• National Green Hydrogen Mission.
• Faster Adoption & Manufacturing of EVs (FAME).
Possible Mains Question
India recorded the highest absolute increase in global greenhouse gas emissions in 2024. Examine the reasons for this contrast and suggest measures for reconciling development needs with low-carbon pathways.