Luxembourg Ranks Second in Highest Greenhouse Gas Footprint Per Capita
In 2022, Luxembourg was identified as one of the top emitters of greenhouse gases within the European Union, ranking second according to a recent publication by Eurostat. The Grand Duchy produced an alarming rate of 15.5 tonnes of CO2 equivalents per capita during this period, positioning it just behind Cyprus, which emitted 16.6 tonnes per capita. Ireland followed closely in third place with emissions of 14.2 tonnes per capita.
The substantial emissions in Luxembourg can be partially attributed to “fuel tourism” linked to logistics companies and cross-border consumption by neighboring countries. This practice results in increased fuel sales within Luxembourg’s borders, consequently boosting the emissions statistics attributed to the country.
In contrast, Sweden marked the lowest greenhouse gas footprint in the EU, with emissions standing at 7.9 tonnes of CO2eq per capita. This was followed by Portugal and Romania, each recording emissions of 8 tonnes per capita.
Overall emissions related to consumption activities in the EU were substantial, with a total of 4.8 billion tonnes of CO2 equivalents reported in 2022. Production-related emissions for the same year amounted to 3.6 billion tonnes. In terms of per capita figures for the entire EU, emissions linked to the production of consumed goods were quantified at 10.7 tonnes of CO2 equivalents.
An interesting observation from the data points out that a significant fraction of the EU’s greenhouse gas footprint is attributed to the consumption of products manufactured outside the EU. Despite global efforts to tackle greenhouse emissions, both the consumption-based and production-based emissions in the EU saw a decline between 2010 and 2022, with reductions of 14% and 18% respectively.
The pandemic year of 2020 brought about a temporary reduction in emissions. However, by 2022, the greenhouse gas emission footprint had increased by 12%, and production-based emissions rose by 4%. Still, these figures were lower compared to pre-pandemic levels.
Looking ahead, significant reductions in Luxembourg’s emissions are anticipated. Statec forecasts a 5% reduction by 2025, thanks to decreased consumption of petroleum products and a rise in electricity utilization. Despite this optimistic view, Luxembourg’s economy saw a 1.8% increase in greenhouse gas emissions during the second quarter of the previous year, highlighting the ongoing challenges in reducing the nation’s carbon footprint.
A notable aspect of Luxembourg’s environmental timeline is its “Overshoot Day,” reached on 17 February 2025. This marked the point when the country’s consumption and emissions surpassed its natural ability to regenerate resources and absorb CO2. Notably, Luxembourg was the first European country to reach this limit and the second globally, following Qatar.
As efforts intensify globally to curb greenhouse gas emissions, Luxembourg’s current standing emphasizes the complex interplay of economic activities and environmental impact. Addressing the challenges of fuel tourism and boosting cleaner energy consumption are critical steps forward in reducing its ecological footprint. The ongoing changes and proposed measures, though promising, highlight the necessity for continued attention and action to achieve a more sustainable future.
