Greenhouse Gas Emissions
Greenhouse gas emissions have fallen by 16% since 2007 but need to decrease to net-zero by 2050 to avert the worst impacts of climate change.
U.S. greenhouse gas emissions by economic sector
Emissions in million metric tons of carbon dioxide equivalent
Source: U.S. EPA. Notes: Types of gasses include carbon dioxide, methane, nitrous oxide, hydrofluorocarbons, perfluorocarbons, sulfur hexafluoride, and nitrogen trifluoride. Gross total emissions excludes the emissions and removals of greenhouse gasses due to Land Use, Land-Use Change, and Forestry (LULUCF).
With climate impacts increasing in intensity, it is imperative to address the reduction of greenhouse gas emissions — the main drivers of climate change. Mitigating greenhouse gas emissions not only helps manage climate-related risks but it will open up extensive new job opportunities and reduce air pollutants that lead to serious illnesses and premature death (Black Carbon).1
Achieving the necessary level of greenhouse gas mitigation to prevent the most severe impacts of climate change will demand an unparalleled investment of time, resources, and labor, spanning every sector of the economy. As such, the development and deployment of new technologies in clean energy, batteries, hydrogen electrolysis, and carbon capture have the potential to generate millions of jobs.2 Such initiatives will include transitioning public transportation and heavy-duty vehicles to zero-emission alternatives; expanding electric vehicle infrastructure; investing in energy efficiency enhancements and weatherization programs; extending broadband access; fostering sustainable and regenerative practices in agriculture, forestry, and soil management; and greatly expanding programs to support workers affected by climate or energy transitions (Public Transportation, Home Weatherization, Lack of Internet).
Nolte, C. G., Dolwick, P. D., Fann, N., Horowitz, L. W., Naik, V., Pinder, R. W., Spero, T. L., Winner, D. A., & Ziska, L. H. (2018). Fourth National Climate Assessment. U.S. Global Change Research Program, 2, 512–538. https://doi.org/10.7930/NCA4.2018.CH13
International Energy Agency. (2021). Net Zero by 2050 A Roadmap for the Global Energy Sector. https://iea.blob.core.windows.net/assets/beceb956-0dcf-4d73-89fe-1310e3046d68/NetZeroby2050-ARoadmapfortheGlobalEnergySector_CORR.pdf
