The data and trends on greenhouse gas emissions in London are outlined below. This is part of the London State of the Environment Report 2010.
About greenhouse gases
Human activity is affecting temperatures. Greenhouse gases come from both natural and man-made sources. However the increase in emissions is the result of human activity, mainly the release of carbon dioxide from fossil fuels.
Inefficient use of resources can lead to increases in greenhouse gas emissions. We should all use resources efficiently.
The data we have used
For this indicator we have used data from the London Energy and Greenhouse Gas Emissions Inventory for 2004 and 2005, which is held by the Greater London Authority. This inventory holds data on London’s greenhouse gas emissions and energy-use by sector.
Overall trends
The Greater London Authority’s London State of the Environment Report (PDF, 622KB) outlines that London emits around 45 million tonnes of carbon dioxide (CO2) per year, which accounts for around 8% of the UK’s CO2 emissions.
CO2 emissions in London have declined between 2004 and 2005, from 46.5 million to 45.4 million tonnes.
CO2 emissions make up 99% of the ‘big six’ greenhouse gas emissions in London.
London’s CO2 emissions are generated by:
- industrial and commercial sector – 44%
- domestic consumption – 36%
- transport – 20%.
The domestic sector has the highest energy use in London, although there was a slight decline from 44% to 43% between 2004 and 2005. The transport sector has the lowest energy use in London, accounting for 22% of the total.
