CO2 Emissions per Capita: Palau

Analysis# Palau CO2 Emissions per Capita Palau's per capita CO2 emissions reached 82.843 metric tons in 2024, representing a substantial decline from its 2012 peak of 202.865 metric tons. Despite this long-term improvement, current emissions remain well above the nation's 2016 low of 64.303 metric tons. Since 1970, Palau has reduced per capita emissions by 52.8%, demonstrating significant progress in decarbonization over five decades. A concerning reversal emerged after 2016, when emissions began climbing steadily. The 2016 low marked a turning point; emissions have since increased by 28.7 metric tons. The upward trajectory accelerated notably between 2021 and 2024, with emissions rising from 74.734 to 82.843 metric tons. This recent pattern suggests mounting pressure from economic activity and energy consumption, signaling the need for renewed climate mitigation efforts if Palau intends to recapture its 2016 efficiency levels.