How Much CO2 do Wildfires Contribute Globally?

What We’re Showing

This graphic shows the CO2 emissions of wildfires across North America, Europe, and Asia in 2021, compared to leading countries. Country figures were sourced from Climate Watch, while wildfire data comes from a UC Irvine-led study published in 2023.

Key Takeaway

Global wildfires in 2021 were the fifth biggest source of CO2 emissions, ahead of major economies like Japan and Germany.

Fast Facts

• Trees store carbon, which means they release it into the air when they are burnt
• 2021 was a record year for forest fires, due to a warming climate and extreme droughts in countries like Canada and Siberia