Global emissions to rebound in 2021 – IEA
Emerging markets are driving energy demand back to 2019 levels, with coal offsetting renewables growth
Global annual energy-related CO2 emissions are set to rebound by 5pc, to just over 33 bn t in 2021, only slightly less than 2019 levels, according to the IEA’s global energy review. The rebound comes despite efforts by the US and the EU to embed clean energy measures in Covid-19 stimulus packages, and is largely driven by coal use in emerging economies. “Economic recovery from Covid crisis unsustainable for climate” Birol, IEA And the situation is likely to continue in 2022 unless governments around the world move rapidly to start cutting emissions, according to IEA executive director Fatih Birol. “This is a dire warning that the economic recovery from the Covid crisis is currently a
Also in this section
28 November 2025
The launch of the bloc’s emissions trading system in 2005 was a pioneering step, but as the scheme hits 21 its impact as a driver of decarbonisation is still open to debate
18 November 2025
Vicki Hollub, president and CEO of Occidental, has been selected as the 2026 recipient of the Dewhurst Award, the highest honour bestowed by WPC Energy. The Dewhurst Award celebrates exceptional leadership, groundbreaking innovation and a lifetime of significant achievements in sup-port of the development and advancement of the energy industry.
11 November 2025
Transition policies must recognise that significant industrial demand for carbon will continue even as economies hit net zero
6 November 2025
After years of pursuing ideologically driven climate leadership, Western powers are now stepping back under mounting political pressure and rising populist opposition—prompting concern essential climate action could be sidelined






