Humans have directly contributed to the rise of global temperatures, with our influence thought to be the dominant cause of warming since the mid 20th century [1].
With 19 of the 20 warmest years on record occurring after 2001 [2] we have seen a significant rise in temperatures in recent years particularly.
Deforestation, animal rearing and burning fossil fuels have all contributed to the rise in global temperatures by increasing co2 emissions over the years.
With the effects of this rise being seen in extreme weather events across the world; often the countries contributing the least towards carbon emissions suffer the most devastating effects from it [3] some of which add to the negative impact to the environment.
Whilst progress has been made in recent years and co2 emissions are thought to have flattened in 2019 [4], more work needs to be done to ensure that we’re not negatively impacting the world in which we live.
With many countries and businesses pledging to play their part in reducing co2 emissions, small changes to our own lifestyles can help reduce our global co2 emissions and ultimately stop the rise in global temperatures.
To find out what CO₂ emissions have occurred in your lifetime and what steps you can take to help reduce them for the future, we have created this interactive infographic.
CO₂ Emissions Data Over Time
CO₂ Emissions in Your Lifetime
We’re all becoming increasingly aware of the impact that we are having on the planet and the effects of climate change. Whilst CO₂ makes up a rather small part of the Earth’s atmosphere at 0.041%, the impact it has on our planet is vast and is contributing to global warming. So, how have CO₂ emissions increased in your lifetime? Enter the year you were born below to find out how emissions have changed over the course of your life.
Total global emissions, CO₂ billion tonnes
Since you were born CO₂ emissions have increased by 40 billion tonnes.
- 1900
- 1910
- 1920
- 1930
- 1940
- 1950
- 1960
- 1970
- 1980
- 1990
- 2000
- 2010
- 2018
- 40B
- 35B
- 30B
- 25B
- 20B
- 15B
- 10B
- 5B
How to reduce your carbon footprint
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![Change-How-You-Travel]()
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Change how you travel
One flight can produce as much CO₂ as some people produce in a year in some countries, and as air travel is one of the largest contributors to carbon emissions reducing the amount you fly can help to lower your carbon footprint. As well as cutting back on air travel, look to travel via train or switch your car from petrol or diesel to electric.
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![Cut-Down-On-Meat]()
![Cut-Down-On-Meat]()
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Cut down on meat
With veganism and vegetarianism on the rise, many are changing their diet in order to reduce their carbon emissions. With meat production contributing greatly to the amount of CO₂ we emit, even small changes such as ‘Meat Free Monday’ can help to have a positive impact on the environment.
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![Reduce-Reuse-Recycle]()
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Reduce, reuse, recycle
We produce over 2 billion tons of waste each year which contributes heavily to our CO₂ emissions. Whilst it is hard to avoid producing waste, think of ways to reuse it such as upcycling your wardrobe or reusing plastic packaging.
Some supermarkets and independent shops allow people to bring their own reusable containers to refill with goods.
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![Plant-a-Garden]()
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Plant a garden
Planting some greenery is a quick and easy way to reduce our carbon footprint. Plants absorb carbon dioxide and produce oxygen which is mutually beneficial to humankind. Get your greenfingers ready to plant a few trees, some bee-friendly flowers, or a herb window box - every plant helps take us one step closer to a better planet.
