South Africa Carbon Footprint
South Africa emits 434 million tonnes of CO₂ per year — equivalent to 7.23 tonnes per person, 59.3% above the global average of 4.54 tonnes.
Per-capita emissions comparison
Overview: South Africa's emissions profile
South Africa is a Africa nation with a population of approximately 60 million. Its total annual CO₂ output of 434 million tonnes represents 1.2% of global emissions. On a per-capita basis, each person in South Africa is responsible for 7.23 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 South Africa
Source: IEA 2023. Global average: ~30%.
South Africa currently generates 14% 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
South Africa 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
South Africa's economy generates 0.86 kg of CO₂ per dollar of GDP — a measure of how carbon-efficient its economic output is. This is relatively high carbon intensity, often reflecting heavy industry, fossil fuel dependence, or energy-intensive manufacturing as a major share of GDP.
How does South Africa compare?
With 7.23 tonnes CO₂ per person, South Africa is 59.3% 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 South Africa needs to reduce per-capita emissions by 214% from today's levels.
Explore the interactive world emissions map to compare South Africa with other countries, or use our free carbon calculator to measure your own footprint.
Frequently asked questions
What is South Africa's carbon footprint per person?
South Africa's carbon footprint is approximately 7.23 tonnes of CO₂ per person per year. The global average is 4.54 tonnes. South Africa is 59.3% above the world average.
What are South Africa's total CO₂ emissions?
South Africa emits approximately 434 million tonnes of CO₂ per year (IEA 2023 data). This accounts for 1.2% of global annual CO₂ emissions.
Does South Africa have a net zero target?
Yes — South Africa has committed to reaching net zero emissions by 2050.
What share of South Africa's energy comes from renewables?
Approximately 14% of South Africa's electricity generation comes from renewable sources (IEA 2023). There is significant room for renewable energy growth.