CO2 Emissions per Capita: Malawi

Analysis# Malawi CO2 Emissions per Capita Malawi's per capita CO2 emissions stood at 0.221 metric tons in 2024, significantly below its all-time peak of 0.376 metric tons in 2011. Since 1970, emissions have increased 194.7%, rising from just 0.046 metric tons. Despite this long-term growth trajectory, the country remains among Africa's lowest emitters per person, reflecting its limited industrialization and modest energy consumption. Recent years show a marked shift toward lower emissions. After peaking at 0.305 metric tons in 2021, per capita emissions declined substantially—dropping to 0.223 in 2023 and 0.221 in 2024. This downward momentum suggests Malawi may be stabilizing its carbon footprint, possibly through reduced economic activity or gradual energy efficiency improvements, marking a potential inflection point after a decade of elevated levels.