Italy Carbon Footprint
Italy emits 310 million tonnes of CO₂ per year — equivalent to 5.25 tonnes per person, 15.6% above the global average of 4.54 tonnes.
Per-capita emissions comparison
Overview: Italy's emissions profile
Italy is a Europe nation with a population of approximately 59 million. Its total annual CO₂ output of 310 million tonnes represents 0.8% of global emissions. On a per-capita basis, each person in Italy is responsible for 5.25 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 Italy
Source: IEA 2023. Global average: ~30%.
Italy currently generates 37% 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
Italy 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
Italy's economy generates 0.14 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 Italy compare?
With 5.25 tonnes CO₂ per person, Italy is 15.6% 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 Italy needs to reduce per-capita emissions by 128% from today's levels.
Explore the interactive world emissions map to compare Italy with other countries, or use our free carbon calculator to measure your own footprint.
Frequently asked questions
What is Italy's carbon footprint per person?
Italy's carbon footprint is approximately 5.25 tonnes of CO₂ per person per year. The global average is 4.54 tonnes. Italy is 15.6% above the world average.
What are Italy's total CO₂ emissions?
Italy emits approximately 310 million tonnes of CO₂ per year (IEA 2023 data). This accounts for 0.8% of global annual CO₂ emissions.
Does Italy have a net zero target?
Yes — Italy has committed to reaching net zero emissions by 2050.
What share of Italy's energy comes from renewables?
Approximately 37% of Italy's electricity generation comes from renewable sources (IEA 2023). This is around the global average.