The countries responsible for the highest greenhouse gas (GHG) emissions globally are:
- China: China is the world's largest emitter of greenhouse gases, accounting for approximately 28% of global GHG emissions. This is primarily due to its heavy reliance on coal for energy production and industrial activities.
- United States: The United States is the second-largest emitter of greenhouse gases, responsible for around 15% of global GHG emissions. This is primarily due to its high levels of industrial and transportation emissions, as well as energy production from fossil fuels.
- European Union (EU): The EU, as a collective entity, is also a significant emitter of greenhouse gases, accounting for approximately 9% of global GHG emissions. The EU consists of 27 member states, and its emissions are primarily from transportation, industry, and agriculture.
- India: India is also a major emitter of greenhouse gases, responsible for around 7% of global GHG emissions. Its emissions primarily come from industrial activities, transportation, and agriculture.
- Russia: Russia is another significant emitter of greenhouse gases, accounting for around 5% of global GHG emissions. Its emissions are primarily from energy production, industrial activities, and transportation.
The map below shows names and location of the top one hundred companies responsible for most of the world's greenhouse gas emissions. Country sizes depict carbon dioxide emissions from 1850 to 2011.
It's important to note that these rankings may change over time as countries' emissions profiles and policies evolve. Additionally, it's worth considering that historically, developed countries have contributed the most to cumulative greenhouse gas emissions, while developing countries may have lower current emissions but may face increasing emissions as they industrialize and develop.
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