Half of world’s carbon emissions in originate from 36 companies- new report
Analysis published March 2025 by Carbon Majors reveals that half of the world’s carbon dioxide emissions in 2023 originated from just 36 fossil fuel companies, including industry giants like Saudi Aramco, ExxonMobil, and Shell. These companies collectively contributed over 20 billion tonnes of CO₂ emissions last year, exacerbating the global climate crisis.
Savio Carvalho, Head of Regions at 350.org, responded to these findings: “That a mere 36 companies are responsible for half of the world’s CO₂ emissions is both alarming and unacceptable. This underscores the urgent need for systemic change in our energy policies and corporate accountability mechanisms. Fossil fuel companies have long prioritized profits over the planet, and it’s high time we hold them accountable for their outsized role in driving the climate crisis.”
This report strengthens the argument for holding fossil fuel companies accountable for their significant contributions to global warming. Notably, the International Energy Agency has stated that new fossil fuel projects initiated after 2021 are incompatible with achieving net-zero emissions by 2050. Despite global climate commitments, many of these companies have continued to expand production, with emissions reaching record highs. Last week BP announced its intent to dramatically cut renewable energy investment and ramp up its oil and gas production.
“As global temperatures rise and extreme weather events become more frequent, the imperative to transition to sustainable energy sources and reduce reliance on fossil fuels has never been more critical. Super-rich corporations and individuals continue to chase short-term profit for themselves and shareholders, and cannot be trusted with fixing the climate crisis or leading the transition to renewable energy we so badly need. The climate crisis isn’t going away, and neither is public demand for urgent action to fund the switch to safe, affordable renewable energy. This report is another alarm bell for governments, policymakers, and civil society to intensify efforts in combating climate change and to demand accountability from governments and entities most responsible for driving the climate crisis” Savio Carvalho
