CO2 Emissions per Capita: Lao P.D.R.

Analysis# Lao P.D.R. CO2 Emissions per Capita Lao P.D.R. recorded 3.354 metric tons of CO2 emissions per capita in 2024, nearly matching its all-time peak of 3.359 metric tons in 2023. Since 1970, the nation has experienced a dramatic 2977% increase from a baseline of 0.042 metric tons. This steep climb reflects rapid industrialization and economic growth over five decades, transforming the country from one of the world's lowest per capita emitters to a mid-range contributor. The most pronounced acceleration occurred between 2015 and 2021, when emissions surged from 1.313 to 3.195 metric tons—a 143% jump in just six years. This period coincided with Laos's infrastructure expansion and increased energy consumption. The recent plateau near 3.3 metric tons suggests emissions may be stabilizing, though levels remain substantially elevated relative to historical baselines.