Sweden Carbon Footprint
Sweden emits 45 million tonnes of CO₂ per year — equivalent to 4.5 tonnes per person, 0.9% below the global average of 4.54 tonnes.
Per-capita emissions comparison
Overview: Sweden's emissions profile
Sweden is a Europe nation with a population of approximately 10 million. Its total annual CO₂ output of 45 million tonnes represents 0.1% of global emissions. On a per-capita basis, each person in Sweden is responsible for 4.5 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 Sweden
Source: IEA 2023. Global average: ~30%.
Sweden has a meaningful renewable energy base at 66%, 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
Sweden has committed to reaching net zero greenhouse gas emissions by 2045. 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
Sweden's economy generates 0.06 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 Sweden compare?
With 4.5 tonnes CO₂ per person, Sweden is 0.9% 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 Sweden needs to reduce per-capita emissions by 96% from today's levels.
Explore the interactive world emissions map to compare Sweden with other countries, or use our free carbon calculator to measure your own footprint.
Frequently asked questions
What is Sweden's carbon footprint per person?
Sweden's carbon footprint is approximately 4.5 tonnes of CO₂ per person per year. The global average is 4.54 tonnes. Sweden is 0.9% below the world average.
What are Sweden's total CO₂ emissions?
Sweden emits approximately 45 million tonnes of CO₂ per year (IEA 2023 data). This accounts for 0.1% of global annual CO₂ emissions.
Does Sweden have a net zero target?
Yes — Sweden has committed to reaching net zero emissions by 2045.
What share of Sweden's energy comes from renewables?
Approximately 66% of Sweden's electricity generation comes from renewable sources (IEA 2023). This is well above the global average.