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EMISSIONS: UK Emissions Fell To Lowest Level Since 1872 Amid Record-Low Coal Use

EMISSIONS

The UK’s emissions fell to around 371mn ton CO2e, or by 3.6%, in 2024, the lowest level since 1872 and 54% below 1990 levels, amid record-low coal usage, according to new Carbon Brief analysis.

  • About half of the drop in emissions in 2024 was due to a 54% reduction in UK coal demand, which fell to just 2mn tonnes, the lowest level since 1666.
  • The main contribution came from the closure of the UK’s last coal-fired power station in October 2024.
  • Other factors include a nearly 40% rise in the number of electric vehicles (EVs) , above-average temperatures, lower gas demand and higher renewable generation in 2024.
  • The UK will need to increase its annual emissions reduction rate by a substantial amount than it did in 2024, as the country has announced that its second NDC would require an at least 81% reduction in emissions by 2035 versus 1990 levels.
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The UK’s emissions fell to around 371mn ton CO2e, or by 3.6%, in 2024, the lowest level since 1872 and 54% below 1990 levels, amid record-low coal usage, according to new Carbon Brief analysis.

  • About half of the drop in emissions in 2024 was due to a 54% reduction in UK coal demand, which fell to just 2mn tonnes, the lowest level since 1666.
  • The main contribution came from the closure of the UK’s last coal-fired power station in October 2024.
  • Other factors include a nearly 40% rise in the number of electric vehicles (EVs) , above-average temperatures, lower gas demand and higher renewable generation in 2024.
  • The UK will need to increase its annual emissions reduction rate by a substantial amount than it did in 2024, as the country has announced that its second NDC would require an at least 81% reduction in emissions by 2035 versus 1990 levels.