The line graph compares the CO2 emissions of five world regions from 2000 to 2020 and includes forecasts up to 2040. Emissions are measured in millions of metric tons.
Overall, despite a predicted downward trend, Region 1 remains the highest emitter throughout the period, whereas Region 5 is expected to consistently record the lowest emissions. Regions 3 and 4 will see notable increases from relatively low starting points, and Region 2 will stay fairly stable with only minor fluctuations.
In 2000, Region 1 began at 8 metric tons of CO2, then peaked at just over 9 million metric tons after a decade. Subsequently, its emissions declined steadily to slightly above 6 million metric tons by 2020, yet it still remained the top contributor among all regions. Region 2 stayed relatively stable at around 6 million Metric tons during this period, whereas Region 5 hovered between 1 and 2 million metric tons, keeping it the lowest emitter throughout. Region 3 initially fell from 4 million Metric tons to 3 million metric tons in 2005, then climbed to 5 million metric tons by 2015 before leveling off. Region 4, on the other hand, remained at around 3 million Metric tons for the first decade, then began a slow but noticeable increase, closing the gap slightly with Region 3.
Looking ahead to 2030 and 2040, Region 1 is expected to continue its decline, reaching exactly 6 million metric tons in 2040 but still retaining the highest emission level. Region 2 is projected to continue fluctuating slightly, returning to its starting point in 2040, while Region 5 will likely maintain its low-emission status, fluctuating around 2 million metric tons. Meanwhile, after leveling off around 2020, Region 3’s emissions are anticipated to climb once more and match Region 2’s by 2040. Region 4 is also forecast to grow, ultimately hitting 5 million metric tons by 2040 but remaining below Region 3.