Bronte Wells
The world's most polluting industries are fossil fuels, livestock production, fashion, transportation, and construction. According to a report by The Guardian, just 100 companies are responsible for 71% of global emissions. The Carbon Majors Report identifies 25 corporate and state-owned entities as the source of more than half of global industrial emissions since 1988. ExxonMobil, Shell, BP, and Chevron are among the highest-emitting investor-owned companies. Another study found that the top 20 polluting companies, all in the fossil fuel industry, contribute 35% of carbon dioxide worldwide. These companies have faced criticism for delaying action and spending millions on lobbying governments. As the UN has warned, the coming decade is crucial for avoiding the worst consequences of global heating.
| Characteristics | Values |
|---|---|
| Number of companies responsible for most pollution | 20-100 |
| Percentage of global emissions | 35%-71% |
| Industries | Fossil fuels, livestock production, fashion, transportation, construction |
| Leading companies | Chevron, Exxon, BP, Shell, Saudi Aramco, Gazprom |
| Action taken | Shift to renewable energy, carbon capture and storage, carbon offsetting, reforestation |
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What You'll Learn
Oil, gas, and coal executives derail progress to a low-carbon future
The world's leading oil, gas, and coal companies have been accused of derailing progress towards a low-carbon future. Despite their vast capital and technical expertise, these companies have been slow to adapt to the changing energy landscape and address their impact on the planet.
A 2019 investigation by The Guardian revealed that the 20 largest fossil fuel companies are responsible for more than one-third of all greenhouse gas emissions in the modern era. These companies have continued to expand their operations and accelerate the extraction of coal, oil, and gas, even as the devastating impact of their actions on the planet and humanity has become clear. The investigation, based on data from the Climate Accountability Institute, calculated the carbon emissions throughout the supply chain, from extraction to consumer use.
Oil, gas, and coal executives have a moral obligation to enable the shift to a low-carbon future. However, they have often offered platitudes and resisted change. For example, some companies have disputed claims that the environmental impact of fossil fuels was known as early as the 1950s or that the industry worked to delay action. Additionally, the oil industry has a long history of lobbying against government support for clean technologies, dating back to the 1960s. They have argued for a "'technology-neutral' approach while enjoying subsidies for their polluting business models.
While some oil and gas companies have started to invest in clean energy projects and diversify their business models to emphasize electrification and energy services, their efforts have been criticized as too little too late. A report from the International Energy Agency (IEA) found that oil and gas companies accounted for just 1% of clean energy investments. As a result, the sector has been described as a "marginal force at best" in the transition to a low-carbon future.
The transition to a low-carbon economy presents a significant challenge to the oil, gas, and coal industries. It requires a rethink of their business models and a shift in how they engage with decarbonization efforts. With growing pressure from the public, regulators, shareholders, and employees, these companies must adapt to survive and find ways to support the deployment of low-carbon energy solutions.
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Livestock production processes are the biggest farm emissions culprit
A 2017 report by the Guardian revealed that 100 companies are responsible for 71% of global emissions. The Carbon Majors Report, published in collaboration with the Climate Accountability Institute, identified fossil fuel producers and investors as the key drivers of climate change. While this report highlights the significant role of these companies, it's important to acknowledge that livestock production processes are also major contributors to emissions, particularly in the agricultural sector.
Livestock production, including feed production, enteric fermentation, manure storage, and land use change, accounts for a significant portion of greenhouse gas emissions. According to the Food and Agriculture Organization of the United Nations, livestock produce 12% of global greenhouse gas emissions, with some peer-reviewed studies placing the figure as high as 19.6%. This percentage translates to 7.1 GT CO2, which is equivalent to about 14.5% of global anthropogenic greenhouse gas emissions. Cattle, particularly beef and milk production, contribute about two-thirds of this amount due to methane emissions from rumen fermentation.
Enteric fermentation, the regular digestive process of ruminants such as cattle and sheep, is a significant source of methane emissions. Over 90% of enteric methane from cattle is emitted through burping. Additionally, manure management systems contribute to methane and nitrous oxide emissions, with liquid systems like manure lagoons producing higher methane emissions. Feed production, including the manufacturing of fertilizers and other farm inputs, emits carbon dioxide, while the application of fertilizers generates nitrous oxide emissions.
Intensive rotational grazing systems have been proposed as a mitigation strategy to reduce nitrous oxide emissions. By subdividing pastures and rotating animals, farmers can manage stocking densities and grazing duration, thereby reducing the effective nitrogen application rate. Additionally, dietary interventions, such as low-protein diets for cattle, can help mitigate nitrous oxide emissions from manure storage. However, it is important to carefully consider the trade-offs, as decreasing protein can lead to increased methane production.
While the debate around climate change often focuses on fossil fuel companies, it is crucial to recognize the significant impact of livestock production processes on global emissions. Addressing and reducing emissions from this sector are essential steps toward mitigating climate change and its impacts.
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Fashion produces 10% of our carbon footprint
The fashion industry is the second-largest industrial polluter, accounting for 10% of global pollution, which is more than emissions from air travel. In total, 1.2 billion tonnes of carbon emissions are released by the fashion industry annually. The industry's operating model exacerbates the problem by increasing the pace of design and production. Collection launches are no longer seasonal, and the replacement of clothing inventories has become much more frequent. Many low-cost clothing stores offer new designs every week, fuelling overconsumption and overproduction.
The perception that it is acceptable to wear an item only a few times contributes to this issue, as it increases the number of discarded items. Research shows that only 20% of clothes owned are worn regularly, yet the average person today buys 60% more clothing than in 2000 and keeps them for half as long. As a result, the fashion industry has doubled its clothing production within the first 15 years of the 21st century.
The garment industry is also a significant contributor to water use and wastewater pollution. It takes 3,781 litres of water to make a single pair of jeans, and the clothing and textile industry consumes 215 trillion litres of water annually. Additionally, around 20% of industrial wastewater pollution comes from the fashion industry.
The use of chemicals in clothes production also raises serious health concerns for both workers and consumers. Furthermore, less than 1% of the material used to produce clothing is recycled into new clothing, resulting in a substantial material value loss.
To reduce the fashion industry's carbon footprint, individual and group action is needed to change the behaviours of big brands and consumers. Some suggestions include switching to renewable energy in factories, reducing polyester use, and changing our mindset and shopping behaviours.
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Food waste represents 8-10% of global GHG emissions
According to the Carbon Majors Report, 100 companies have been responsible for 71% of global greenhouse gas emissions since 1988. The report highlights the role of fossil fuel producers and investors in tackling climate change, with over half of global industrial emissions traced to just 25 companies.
While the debate often focuses on individual responsibility, some argue that public and political discussions should hold these major corporate polluters accountable for their emissions. These companies profit from their operations and attract investments, allowing them to expand despite their environmental impact.
Food waste is a significant contributor to global greenhouse gas emissions, with estimates ranging from 6% to 8-10% of total emissions. The true scale of food waste and its environmental, social, and economic impacts has not been well understood until recently. The UNEP Food Waste Index Report 2021 aims to address this by providing comprehensive food waste data and a methodology for countries to measure food waste at various levels, enabling them to develop strategies for waste prevention and track their progress.
The study by Poore and Nemecek (2018) estimated that almost one-quarter (24%) of food emissions come from food lost in supply chains or wasted by consumers. This waste includes food that is spoiled or spilled and food wasted by retailers, restaurants, and consumers. The environmental cost of producing food that is never eaten is significant, and reducing food waste can provide benefits for both people and the planet.
In conclusion, while a relatively small number of companies are responsible for a significant portion of global emissions, food waste also plays a notable role in contributing to climate change. Addressing both these issues through accountability, policy changes, and waste reduction strategies can help mitigate their environmental impact.
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The transport sector is responsible for one-fifth of GHG emissions
The transport sector is a major contributor to greenhouse gas (GHG) emissions, accounting for a significant portion of the world's carbon footprint. While the sector has brought about remarkable advancements in connectivity and mobility, its environmental impact cannot be overlooked. According to the Inventory of U.S. Greenhouse Gas Emissions and Sinks 1990–2022, transportation was responsible for the largest share, approximately 28%, of total U.S. GHG emissions in 2022. This includes emissions from cars, trucks, commercial aircraft, railroads, and other sources.
The primary source of GHG emissions in the transport sector is the burning of fossil fuels. Over 94% of the fuel used for transportation is petroleum-based, including gasoline and diesel, which results in direct emissions. The large proportion of fossil fuel usage in the sector highlights the need for a transition to more sustainable energy sources. Indirect emissions from electricity end-use in transportation are relatively low, constituting less than 1% of direct emissions. However, as the sector is an end-user of electricity, there is potential for further reduction in emissions through the adoption of renewable energy sources.
The impact of the transport sector on GHG emissions extends beyond the direct burning of fossil fuels. The production and distribution of transportation fuels also contribute to emissions. The extraction, refining, and distribution of petroleum-based fuels require energy, resulting in additional emissions. Furthermore, the manufacturing and maintenance of vehicles, aircraft, and other transportation infrastructure contribute to the sector's carbon footprint throughout the value chain. These indirect emissions associated with the transport sector are often overlooked but are significant in understanding the sector's overall environmental impact.
To address the environmental challenges posed by the transport sector, a multifaceted approach is necessary. Firstly, a shift towards more fuel-efficient vehicles and the promotion of electric vehicles can significantly reduce direct emissions. This includes incentivizing the development and adoption of electric cars, trucks, and buses, as well as improving fuel efficiency standards for traditional combustion engines. Secondly, the sector can benefit from the integration of renewable energy sources. By transitioning to electricity generated from renewable sources, such as solar, wind, or hydropower, the carbon footprint of the transport sector can be substantially reduced.
Additionally, improvements in infrastructure and transportation planning can play a crucial role in mitigating emissions. This includes investing in public transportation systems, promoting intermodal transportation, and optimizing logistics and routing to reduce emissions associated with freight transportation. Policy interventions, such as emissions standards, carbon pricing mechanisms, and incentives for low-carbon technologies, can also drive the necessary changes across the sector. Finally, the development and implementation of new technologies, such as hydrogen fuel cells, biofuels, and advanced battery systems, offer promising avenues for reducing the transport sector's environmental footprint even further.
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Frequently asked questions
According to a report by the Carbon Disclosure Project (CDP), 100 companies have been responsible for 71% of global GHG emissions since 1988.
The fossil fuels sector is the most polluting industry in the world. Livestock production, fashion, transportation, and construction are also among the top polluting industries.
The top polluting companies are investor-owned firms such as Chevron, Exxon, BP, and Shell, and state-owned companies including Saudi Aramco and Gazprom.
