Higher CO2 emissions in Q4 2016

Q4 2016 had colder weather conditions compared to Q4 2015, particularly in November and December. When adjusted for this effect, CO₂ emissions were 2.7 percent higher than one year previously.

Higher CO₂ emissions at energy companies

In Q4 2016, CO₂ emissions by energy, water and waste management companies increased by 5.5 percent on the previous year. These companies account for around 30 percent of total CO₂ emissions. The rise can mainly be attributed to a year-on-year increase in electricity production at power stations, particularly as a result of increased foreign demand.

Transport sector emits more CO₂

CO₂ emissions by the transport sector rose by over 5 percent in Q4. This sector is responsible for nearly 14 percent of total emissions. The rise in total value added of the transport sector is less significant than the rise in CO₂ emissions. Emissions by the aviation sector and inland shipping increased most notably, by nearly 9 and more than 7 percent respectively, mainly due to an increase in transport activities.

Higher CO₂ emissions in agriculture and chemical industry

Emissions of CO₂ in the cluster agriculture, mining, manufacturing industry and construction were up by over 2 percent relative to Q4 2015. This cluster contributes 23 percent to total emissions. The agricultural sector and the chemical industry in particular accounted for higher CO₂ emissions. In the chemical industry, this was largely due to increased output.

CO₂ emissions by other services and private households

In Q4 2016, CO₂ emissions by other services – accounting for over 12 percent of total CO₂ emissions – rose by 15 percent. This was mainly due to higher consumption of natural gas for the heating of office buildings. As for CO₂ emissions by households, which account for more than 20 percent of total CO₂ emissions, the increase in Q4 2016 was considerably higher (nearly 14 percent) than one year previously. Here as well, the increase is mainly the result of higher consumption of gas for heating.

The calculation of CO₂ emissions is consistent with the definitions used in Environmental accounts. This is a first estimate.