Canada Carbon Footprint
Canada emits 571 million tonnes of CO₂ per year — equivalent to 15.03 tonnes per person, 231.1% above the global average of 4.54 tonnes.
Per-capita emissions comparison
Overview: Canada's emissions profile
Canada is a North America nation with a population of approximately 38 million. Its total annual CO₂ output of 571 million tonnes represents 1.6% of global emissions. On a per-capita basis, each person in Canada is responsible for 15.03 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 Canada
Source: IEA 2023. Global average: ~30%.
Canada has a meaningful renewable energy base at 67%, broadly in line with or above the global average. Continued investment in wind, solar, and other clean sources will be key to meeting climate targets.
Net zero target and climate commitments
Canada 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
Canada's economy generates 0.31 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 Canada compare?
With 15.03 tonnes CO₂ per person, Canada is 231.1% above 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 Canada needs to reduce per-capita emissions by 553% from today's levels.
Explore the interactive world emissions map to compare Canada with other countries, or use our free carbon calculator to measure your own footprint.
Frequently asked questions
What is Canada's carbon footprint per person?
Canada's carbon footprint is approximately 15.03 tonnes of CO₂ per person per year. The global average is 4.54 tonnes. Canada is 231.1% above the world average.
What are Canada's total CO₂ emissions?
Canada emits approximately 571 million tonnes of CO₂ per year (IEA 2023 data). This accounts for 1.6% of global annual CO₂ emissions.
Does Canada have a net zero target?
Yes — Canada has committed to reaching net zero emissions by 2050.
What share of Canada's energy comes from renewables?
Approximately 67% of Canada's electricity generation comes from renewable sources (IEA 2023). This is well above the global average.