France Carbon Footprint
France emits 297 million tonnes of CO₂ per year — equivalent to 4.37 tonnes per person, 3.7% below the global average of 4.54 tonnes.
Per-capita emissions comparison
Overview: France's emissions profile
France is a Europe nation with a population of approximately 68 million. Its total annual CO₂ output of 297 million tonnes represents 0.8% of global emissions. On a per-capita basis, each person in France is responsible for 4.37 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 France
Source: IEA 2023. Global average: ~30%.
France currently generates 26% of electricity from renewables — below the global average of around 30%. Expanding renewable capacity is one of the highest-leverage actions available for reducing national emissions.
Net zero target and climate commitments
France 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
France's economy generates 0.11 kg of CO₂ per dollar of GDP — a measure of how carbon-efficient its economic output is. This is among the lowest carbon intensities globally, reflecting a highly efficient, service-dominated economy and/or a clean electricity grid.
How does France compare?
With 4.37 tonnes CO₂ per person, France is 3.7% 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 France needs to reduce per-capita emissions by 90% from today's levels.
Explore the interactive world emissions map to compare France with other countries, or use our free carbon calculator to measure your own footprint.
Frequently asked questions
What is France's carbon footprint per person?
France's carbon footprint is approximately 4.37 tonnes of CO₂ per person per year. The global average is 4.54 tonnes. France is 3.7% below the world average.
What are France's total CO₂ emissions?
France emits approximately 297 million tonnes of CO₂ per year (IEA 2023 data). This accounts for 0.8% of global annual CO₂ emissions.
Does France have a net zero target?
Yes — France has committed to reaching net zero emissions by 2050.
What share of France's energy comes from renewables?
Approximately 26% of France's electricity generation comes from renewable sources (IEA 2023). This is around the global average.