France’s GHG emissions

What are GHG emissions in France?

Greenhouse gases (GHGs) include carbon dioxide (CO2), methane (CH4), and nitrous oxide (N2O), which trap heat in the atmosphere, thus contributing to global warming. GHG emissions are measured in tons of CO2 equivalent (tCO2e), a unit that quantifies the impact of each gas relative to CO2.

In 2021, France’s GHG emissions were about 418 million tons of CO2 equivalent, marking a decrease compared to previous years. This reduction is part of a trend that has been ongoing for several years, largely due to the progressive decarbonization of certain sectors.

Compared to 1990, France’s emissions have decreased by about 20%, but further efforts are needed to meet the commitments of the Paris Agreement. Transportation and agriculture remain sectors where reducing emissions poses challenges. In other areas, such as industry and energy production, significant progress has been made.

Distribution of GHG emissions by sector in France

In France, greenhouse gas (GHG) emissions are distributed across several economic sectors. Transportation is the main contributor, accounting for about 30% of national emissions. This is due to the reliance on fossil fuels for personal vehicles and road freight transport.

The industrial sector is also a major emitter, with about 19% of emissions. Cement, steel, and chemical industries are among the most polluting due to the combustion of fossil fuels and the industrial processes themselves.

Agriculture is responsible for 19% of emissions, mainly through methane (CH4) production by ruminants and nitrous oxide (N2O) from fertilizers and other chemicals. Intensive livestock farming and the use of chemical products also play a key role in these emissions.

Finally, buildings and the residential sector represent about 16% of emissions, largely due to energy consumption for heating and cooling, with a predominance of gas and oil usage.

Energy sources and their impact on GHG emissions

Electricity production in France relies on several energy sources, each with a specific impact on greenhouse gas (GHG) emissions. Nuclear power dominates the energy mix, accounting for about 70% of electricity production. It generates very low CO2 emissions but raises questions about radioactive waste management and the risks associated with nuclear plants.

Fossil fuels like coal, gas, and oil, though less used in France, are still present, especially in certain industrial sectors. They are the main contributors to CO2 emissions, with coal being particularly polluting.

Renewable energy sources (solar, wind, hydro) are playing an increasingly important role in the energy mix, accounting for about 20% of electricity production. These sources are essential for reducing GHG emissions since they do not emit CO2 during energy production.

France continues its energy transition with projects aimed at increasing the share of renewable energy and reducing its dependence on fossil fuels. Efforts to improve energy efficiency and electrify certain sectors, such as transportation, are also crucial to achieving national climate goals.

France’s climate goals

As part of the Paris Agreement, France has committed to achieving carbon neutrality by 2050, an ambitious goal aimed at reducing its greenhouse gas (GHG) emissions and balancing residual emissions through offset actions, such as reforestation.

To reach this goal, France has implemented several strategies, including the Climate Plan and the National Low Carbon Strategy (SNBC), which outline actions to decarbonize the economy. The SNBC sets specific emission reduction targets for various sectors, such as energy, transportation, industry, and agriculture.

Intermediate targets have also been set, with a 40% reduction by 2030 compared to 1990 levels. These targets help track progress and adjust policies based on results.

At the same time, France is aligning with European directives aimed at accelerating the energy transition, particularly through the European Green Deal, by promoting energy efficiency, the development of renewable energy, and the electrification of strategic sectors like transportation. Coordination with European goals is crucial to ensure a smooth and effective transition on a continental scale.