Lower CO2 emissions in Q1 2019

The weather was less cold in Q1 2019 compared to the same quarter last year. When adjusted for this weather effect, CO2 emissions were up by 1.6 percent in Q1 year-on-year.

Lower CO2 emissions by households and services sector

CO2 emissions by households were 3 percent lower in Q1 2019 relative to one year previously. Emissions due to natural gas consumption were down in particular. On the other hand, emissions due to motor fuel consumption were higher. In Q1 2019, households occupied a share in total CO2 emissions exceeding 21 percent.

In Q1 2019, CO2 emissions by the services sector were down by 3.6 percent year-on-year. The share in total emissions stood at 11 percent. 

Transport sector emits more CO2

CO2 emissions by the transport sector were up by 0.8 percent in Q1 year-on-year. This sector accounted for over 10 percent of total emissions. Emissions in aviation and inland shipping increased, while maritime shipping emissions decreased. 

Higher CO2 emissions by energy companies

In Q1 2019, CO2 emissions by energy, water and waste management companies was up by 0.7 percent year-on-year. These companies accounted for almost 29 percent of total CO2 emissions. Electricity companies used less coal and more natural gas in their production process. Combustion of natural gas results in lower CO2 emissions than coal combustion.

CO2 emissions in agriculture and manufacturing virtually the same

Emissions of CO2 in the cluster agriculture, mining, manufacturing industry and construction were virtually the same in Q1 2019 as in Q1 2018. This cluster was responsible for 28 percent of total emissions. The petroleum and chemical industries emitted more CO2, while emissions in agriculture declined.