Here’s How Much Carbon Emissions Weigh Compared To Iconic Global Landmarks

The number of carbon emissions being released on a daily basis throughout the world is now unprecedented, with the level of carbon dioxide in the atmosphere having increased by more than 43% since the Industrial Revolution. When you imagine the amount of carbon emissions produced daily in terms of weight, then the figures are really quite shocking.

USA

The USA is second in the world when it comes to the amount of carbon emissions it releases into the atmosphere, accounting for 15% of the global share. It is second only to China, which makes up a staggering 28% of the world’s carbon dioxide from fuel consumption. To put into perspective how much air pollution America produces, just imagine the weight of 24 million Statues of Liberty, every single day!

Russia

The world’s largest nation produces the 4th most carbon emissions, with a large proportion coming from Russia’s coal, steel and metal industries. The 1,8 billion tonnes of emissions produced weigh the same as 280 million Soyuz rockets or 3 billion bears, every day!

Despite being a relatively small island, the UK sits 15th on the list for producing the most carbon emissions, actually way ahead of much larger countries such as Australia and France. In one single day the UK produces the same weight of carbon emissions as 37 million London buses or 37,000 Shards! It should come as no surprise that the capital city is the chief antagonist, as Londoners release 25% more emissions on average than their northern compatriots.

Italy

Italy is the 17th most harmful country in the world when it comes to fuel consumption and air pollution. In 2005, the country reached its highest ever recorded level of 161,814kt. Luckily, since then, measures have been put in place which have resulted in a slow but steady decrease. At present, Italy produces around 345 million tonnes of carbon emissions a day, which is the equivalent to 24,000 Towers of Pisa or 3.6 billion Vespas!

France

France only comes in as the 19th most polluted country in the world, but it still manages to release over 334 million tonnes of CO2 every year. In layman’s terms, that’s 46,000 Eiffel Towers or 1.3 trillion baguettes daily. This is in spite of the fact that the country has successfully reduced their carbon footprint from a record 382 million tonnes in the year 2000.

More info: comparethemarket.com