United States Carbon Footprint
United States emits 4,958 million tonnes of CO₂ per year — equivalent to 14.89 tonnes per person, 228.0% above the global average of 4.54 tonnes.
Per-capita emissions comparison
Overview: United States's emissions profile
United States is a North America nation with a population of approximately 333 million. Its total annual CO₂ output of 4958 million tonnes represents 13.5% of global emissions. On a per-capita basis, each person in United States is responsible for 14.89 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 United States
Source: IEA 2023. Global average: ~30%.
United States currently generates 22% 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
United States 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
United States's economy generates 0.28 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 United States compare?
With 14.89 tonnes CO₂ per person, United States is 228.0% 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 United States needs to reduce per-capita emissions by 547% from today's levels.
Explore the interactive world emissions map to compare United States with other countries, or use our free carbon calculator to measure your own footprint.
Frequently asked questions
What is United States's carbon footprint per person?
United States's carbon footprint is approximately 14.89 tonnes of CO₂ per person per year. The global average is 4.54 tonnes. United States is 228.0% above the world average.
What are United States's total CO₂ emissions?
United States emits approximately 4958 million tonnes of CO₂ per year (IEA 2023 data). This accounts for 13.5% of global annual CO₂ emissions.
Does United States have a net zero target?
Yes — United States has committed to reaching net zero emissions by 2050.
What share of United States's energy comes from renewables?
Approximately 22% of United States's electricity generation comes from renewable sources (IEA 2023). There is significant room for renewable energy growth.