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South America

Brazil Carbon Footprint

Brazil emits 454 million tonnes of CO₂ per year — equivalent to 2.11 tonnes per person, 53.5% below the global average of 4.54 tonnes.

Total CO₂
454Mt
per year (IEA 2023)
Per capita
2.11t
tonnes CO₂e/person
Population
215M
people
Net zero target
2050
stated commitment

Per-capita emissions comparison

Brazil 2.11t CO₂
World average 4.54t CO₂
Paris 1.5°C target (2030) 2.3t CO₂

Overview: Brazil's emissions profile

Brazil is a South America nation with a population of approximately 215 million. Its total annual CO₂ output of 454 million tonnes represents 1.2% of global emissions. On a per-capita basis, each person in Brazil is responsible for 2.11 tonnes of CO₂ per year — compared to the world average of 4.54 tonnes and the Paris Agreement's 1.5°C pathway target of 2.3 tonnes.

Renewable energy in Brazil

Renewable electricity share 83%

Source: IEA 2023. Global average: ~30%.

Brazil is a renewable energy leader, with 83% of electricity from clean sources. This significantly reduces grid-connected emissions and positions the country well for further electrification.

Net zero target and climate commitments

Brazil has committed to reaching net zero greenhouse gas emissions by 2050. This aligns with the Paris Agreement's goal of limiting global warming to 1.5°C.

The Paris Agreement (2015) requires countries to submit Nationally Determined Contributions (NDCs) — national plans for emissions reduction. Progress against these targets is tracked by the UN Framework Convention on Climate Change (UNFCCC).

Carbon intensity of the economy

Brazil's economy generates 0.23 kg of CO₂ per dollar of GDP — a measure of how carbon-efficient its economic output is. This is broadly average for an upper-middle or high-income economy.

How does Brazil compare?

With 2.11 tonnes CO₂ per person, Brazil is 53.5% below the world average of 4.54 tonnes. To meet the Paris Agreement's 1.5°C pathway, per-capita emissions globally need to fall to around 2.3 tonnes by 2030 — meaning Brazil is already at or near the Paris pathway target.

Explore the interactive world emissions map to compare Brazil with other countries, or use our free carbon calculator to measure your own footprint.

Frequently asked questions

What is Brazil's carbon footprint per person?

Brazil's carbon footprint is approximately 2.11 tonnes of CO₂ per person per year. The global average is 4.54 tonnes. Brazil is 53.5% below the world average.

What are Brazil's total CO₂ emissions?

Brazil emits approximately 454 million tonnes of CO₂ per year (IEA 2023 data). This accounts for 1.2% of global annual CO₂ emissions.

Does Brazil have a net zero target?

Yes — Brazil has committed to reaching net zero emissions by 2050.

What share of Brazil's energy comes from renewables?

Approximately 83% of Brazil's electricity generation comes from renewable sources (IEA 2023). This is well above the global average.