Largest global emitters of carbon dioxide 2023, by country

China was the biggest emitter of carbon dioxide (CO₂) emissions in 2023, accounting for over 31 percent of total global emissions. The world's top four largest polluters were responsible for roughly 60 percent of global CO₂ emissions in 2023. 

Cumulative emissions

Although China currently emits the highest levels of CO₂ annually, it has emitted far less than the United States over the past three centuries. Since 1750, the United States has produced more than 430 billion metric tons of cumulative carbon dioxide emissions. Global CO₂ emissions have increased dramatically since the birth of the Industrial Revolution, and in 2023 reached a record high. 

Which countries are reducing emissions?

As of 2023, seven of the 20 biggest CO₂ emitters had recorded overall emissions reductions when compared to 1990 levels. The United Kingdom, for example, slashed its carbon emissions by almost 50 percent between 1990 and 2023, while Germany recorded reductions of roughly 43 percent. In comparison, many developing countries saw their emissions increase massively over the same period.