New Zealand carbon profile

New Zealand emits roughly 32 Mt of CO₂ per year — about 0.09% of global emissions, ranking #68 worldwide. At 6.2 tonnes per person (#31 per capita), its footprint is above the global average of ~4.7 t.

Emissions have declined steadily over the past five years (-12%) and declined steadily over the decade (-8%). The sustained downward trajectory suggests structural decarbonization rather than a one-off dip.

Renewables supply about 89% of electricity. The power sector is largely decarbonized, so remaining emissions come mostly from transport, industry and heating.

If the current pace holds, New Zealand could cut another ~11% by 2030. Maintaining clean growth while industrializing is the key challenge.