CO2 Emissions per Capita: Nicaragua

Analysis# Nicaragua CO2 Emissions per Capita Nicaragua's per capita CO2 emissions reached 0.83 metric tons in 2024, reflecting a modest 21.5% increase since 1970 despite significant volatility over five decades. The country's peak emissions of 0.944 metric tons occurred in 1977, while the lowest point came in 1989 at 0.422 metric tons. Current levels remain well below the 1977 peak, positioning Nicaragua among the lower emitters globally relative to population size. Recent years reveal a notable recovery after a sharp 2020 decline to 0.723 metric tons—likely reflecting pandemic-related economic disruption. Emissions have climbed steadily since then, rising from 0.781 metric tons in 2021 to 0.83 in 2024. This upward trajectory mirrors economic activity rebound and suggests Nicaragua's emissions may continue climbing unless renewable energy investments accelerate.