Environment
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Extending current energy policies would reduce U.S. energy use, carbon dioxide emissions ›
Power plant emissions of sulfur dioxide are projected to decline ›
Analysis of greenhouse gas emissions and corporate average fuel economy standards ›
Early 2012 U.S. carbon dioxide emissions from energy use lowest since 1992 ›
Energy In Brief Articles
What are greenhouse gases and how much are emitted by the United States?
Greenhouse gases trap heat from the sun and warm the planet's surface. Of U.S. greenhouse gas emissions, 87% are related to energy consumption. Since 1990, greenhouse gas emissions in the United States have grown by about 1% per year.
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Energy and the Environment Explained
Greenhouse Gases' Effect on the Climate
Levels of several important greenhouse gases have increased by about 40% since large-scale industrialization began around 150 years ago. During the past 20 years, about three-quarters of human-caused emissions came from burning fossil fuels. Concentrations of carbon dioxide in the atmosphere are naturally regulated by numerous processes collectively known as the "carbon cycle."
Where Greenhouse Gases Come From
In the United States, greenhouse gas emissions come primarily from the burning of fossil fuels in energy use. Energy use is largely driven by economic growth with short-term fluctuations in its growth rate created by weather patterns affecting heating and cooling needs. Energy use is also driven by changes in the fuel used in electricity generation.
Features
State-Level Energy-Related Carbon Dioxide Emissions, 2000-2010Released May 13, 2013
This analysis examines some of the factors that influence state-level carbon dioxide emissions from the consumption of fossil fuels. These factors include: the fuel mix—especially in the generation of electricity; the state climate; the population density of the state; the industrial makeup of the state and whether the state is a net exporter or importer of electricity.
Annual Energy Outlook 2013Released April 15, 2013–May 2, 2013
Recently released content includes a Legislation and Regulations section that discusses evolving issues, a Market Trends section that highlights projections for energy markets, and a comparison of AEO2013 with projections from other organizations.
Monthly Energy Review,
Table 12Released April 25, 2013
A report of recent energy statistics including carbon dioxide emissions from energy consumption.
U.S. Energy-Related Carbon Dioxide Emissions, 2011Released August 14, 2012
This online analysis of 2011 energy-related carbon dioxide emissions indicates U.S. carbon dioxide emissions from the consumptiion of fossil fuels were 5,471 million metric tons carbon dioxide (MMTCO2) in 2011, a decrease of 2.4 percent from the 2010 level.
What's New in Environment
State-Level Energy-Related Carbon Dioxide Emissions, 2000-2010
May 13, 2013
State CO2 Emissions
January 31, 2013
California's first greenhouse gas emissions auction sells near minimum price
December 21, 2012
How much CO2 does the United States emit? Is it more than other countries? ›
What is the Voluntary Reporting Program?
