Study: Some Countries Able To Grow Economy And Reduce Emissions

The World Bank recently released a study regarding “emissions intensity”. Emissions intensity is the amount of carbon emissions created compared to each unit of gross domestic product. The World Bank has been determining these figures since 1994.

Between 1994 and 2006, emissions intensity actually decreased worldwide each year except for two. Individual countries did not necessarily match the reduction, as shown by such countries as China and the United States.

Between 2001 and 2006, China’s emissions increased drastically in relation to their gross domestic product. During the same years, Italy also had increased emissions. The United States did see a growth in emissions compared to gross domestic product, however it was a reduction compared to earlier years. The World Bank points to emission reductions due to various legislation.

Both Denmark and Germany saw reductions in emissions during these years. Both countries reduced their emissions intensity alongside their overall emissions reductions. The World Bank did not consider individual countries’ legislation policies to determine why the emissions intensity occurred in each country.

Those in charge of the study are hoping the information they attained will be helpful in Copenhagen in December. If a country can gain economic growth while reducing emissions, it would minimize many fears countries have over combating global warming.