CO2 Emissions per Capita: Cabo Verde

Analysis# Cabo Verde CO2 Emissions per Capita Cabo Verde's per capita CO2 emissions stood at 1.288 metric tons in 2024, representing a substantial increase from the nation's 1970 baseline of 0.522 metric tons—a 147.2% rise over five decades. The country reached its historical peak of 1.732 metric tons in 2017, more than 17 times higher than its 1986 low of 0.097 metric tons, reflecting the island nation's expanding energy consumption and economic development. A sharp decline occurred in 2020, when emissions fell to 1.221 metric tons, likely reflecting pandemic-related disruptions to economic activity and transportation. Since then, emissions have remained relatively stable, fluctuating between 1.246 and 1.309 metric tons through 2024. This plateau suggests Cabo Verde's carbon footprint has stabilized at roughly 74% of its 2017 peak, though the current level remains significantly elevated compared to historical norms.