According to a recent estimate by the Environment Agency Austria, around 66.8 million tons of CO2 equivalent were emitted in Austria in 2024 – a decrease of 2.7 percent compared to 2023. This marks the third consecutive year of declining emissions.

Originally, a stronger decline of 3.7 percent had been forecasted in November 2024. However, new data from energy production in the fourth quarter led to an adjustment of the figures. More detailed calculations are expected in the summer of 2025.

Measures Show Effect

The current figures are based on energy consumption and production statistics as well as calculations from agriculture. According to Günther Lichtblau, climate expert at the Environment Agency Austria, the decline is a sign that climate protection measures are showing effect. “However, it remains necessary to continue acting ambitiously to achieve climate goals,” emphasizes Lichtblau.

In the emissions trading sector, which includes large industrial companies and energy producers, the decline was comparatively small at 1.2 percent (minus 0.3 million tons CO2 equivalent). The main reasons for this are high energy prices, reduced natural gas consumption, and a weaker economy.

Largest Decline in Buildings and Transportation

The largest savings were outside of emissions trading, where emissions fell by 3.6 percent to 42.7 million tons CO2 equivalent in 2024. The following sectors were particularly affected:

This puts Austria below the maximum limit of 43 million tons CO2 equivalent set for 2024.

(APA/Red)

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