The line graph illustrates the annual average carbon dioxide emissions per capita in the United Kingdom, Sweden, Italy, and Portugal over a period spanning from 1967 to 2007.
In summary, the data reveals a significant reduction in carbon dioxide emissions in both the United Kingdom and Sweden, in stark contrast to the increasing trends observed in Italy and Portugal over the same timeframe.
The United Kingdom commenced this period with the highest emissions, measuring approximately 10.8 metric tonnes per person in 1967, while Sweden’s emissions were slightly lower at around 8.8 metric tonnes. Following a plateau during the initial decade, UK emissions displayed a consistent decline, decreasing to approximately 9 metric tonnes by 2007. In a similar vein, Sweden’s emissions experienced a notable reduction, ultimately falling to just under 6 metric tonnes by the conclusion of the period, representing a cumulative decrease of nearly 5 metric tonnes.
Conversely, Italy’s emissions began at 4.2 metric tonnes, nearly three times that of Portugal’s initial figure of 1.2 metric tonnes. From 1967 to 1997, Italy exhibited a marked increase in emissions, rising by approximately 3.6 metric tonnes to reach around 7.8 metric tonnes. This surge indicates a growing reliance on carbon-intensive processes. Similarly, Portugal experienced a substantial emissions increase, quadrupling its output from approximately 1.2 metric tonnes in 1967 to about 5.6 metric tonnes by 2007. Notably, this growth trend reflects broader economic developments and shifts in energy consumption patterns in these nations.