US states record decline in per capita carbon emissions, reports EIA

Core Insights - Between 2005 and 2023, per capita carbon dioxide (CO₂) emissions from energy consumption in the US declined in every state, with total energy-related CO₂ emissions falling by 20% while the population grew by 14%, resulting in a 30% drop in per capita emissions [1][2] Group 1: Emission Trends - The decline in CO₂ emissions is primarily attributed to reduced coal consumption in the electric power sector, with electricity generation from natural gas and renewable sources like wind and solar contributing significantly [2][3] - Maryland experienced the largest decline in per capita emissions, down by 49% from 2005 to 2023, achieving the lowest per capita CO₂ emissions among states in 2023 at 7.8 tonnes [2][3] Group 2: Sector Contributions - In 2023, the transportation sector emerged as the leading source of CO₂ emissions in most states along the east and west coasts, which are characterized by higher population densities and increased travel [4] - The electric power sector was the leading source of CO₂ emissions in 18 states in 2023, while states like Pennsylvania, Alabama, and Wyoming remained net electricity suppliers, largely relying on coal for electricity production [5] Group 3: Industrial Emissions - The industrial sector was the top emitter in Texas, Louisiana, Alaska, and Iowa, with these states contributing significantly to overall US industrial emissions, accounting for more than half of all emissions in 2023 [5]