UK Greenhouse Gas Emissions Drop 5.4% in 2023, Marking Progress Towards Net Zero

In 2023, the UK saw a significant 5.4% reduction in greenhouse gas emissions, primarily due to using less gas in power stations. The country’s total emissions were about 384.2 million tonnes, down from 406.2 million tonnes the previous year. This decrease includes a notable 6.6% annual drop in carbon dioxide emissions alone.

Since 1990, the UK has cut its greenhouse gas emissions by over half (52.7%), a milestone that positions the UK as the first major economy to achieve such a reduction. Energy Security Secretary Claire Coutinho highlighted this achievement as a step towards the country’s goal of net-zero emissions by 2050.

The fall in gas usage for electricity (21.1% less in 2023) was attributed to more electricity being imported, especially from France, and a general decrease in electricity demand in the UK. This reduced demand reflects improvements in technology efficiency and a shift away from energy-intensive industries. High energy prices also played a role, leading to less fuel use for heating and industrial activities.

In 2023, nuclear and renewable sources provided 56.7% of the UK’s electricity, a significant increase from 22.2% in 1990. Despite this progress, domestic transport remains the largest emitter, contributing to 29.1% of the UK’s emissions, mainly from road vehicles using petrol and diesel. However, emissions from this sector did drop by 1.4% in 2023, marking the first decline since the pandemic-related travel restrictions in 2020.

This report comes as other countries like Germany and France also report decreases in their greenhouse gas emissions, highlighting a broader trend towards reducing carbon footprints.