Production Gap Report 2023

The Production Gap Report 2023 assesses the discrepancy between current fossil fuel production and the production levels necessary to achieve the goals of the Paris Agreement, which aims to limit global warming to well below 2 degrees Celsius above pre-industrial levels. This annual report provides important insights into the production patterns of coal, oil, and gas.

Key Takeaways:

• Production of fossil fuels continues to exceed the levels compatible with a safe climate future.
• Rapid and significant production decreases are required to align with the Paris Agreement’s temperature goals.
• Fossil fuel investments risk becoming stranded assets if production is not significantly scaled down.

Global Coal Production

The report highlights the need for urgent action in the coal sector, as *global coal production continues to rise, contributing to the growing carbon emissions. According to the report, in 2023, global coal production reached 9,200 million tonnes, a 2% increase from the previous year. This upward trend is concerning, considering that phasing out coal is crucial for reducing greenhouse gas emissions and transitioning to cleaner energy sources.*

Global Oil Production

The report also reveals that *global oil production remains unabated, hindering efforts to combat climate change. In 2023, global oil production reached an all-time high of 105 million barrels per day, showing a clear need to reduce our dependence on fossil fuels and accelerate the transition to renewable energy sources.*

Global Gas Production

According to the report, *global gas production has also been on the rise, posing another challenge for achieving the goals of the Paris Agreement. In 2023, global gas production reached 4,100 billion cubic meters, primarily driven by the United States, China, and Russia. Reducing the reliance on gas and investing in sustainable alternatives is crucial to ensure a sustainable future.*

Stranded Assets and Climate Implications

The Production Gap Report 2023 emphasizes the *risk of stranded assets in the fossil fuel industry. Investments in fossil fuel infrastructure may become financially unsustainable if production does not align with the Paris Agreement goals. Additionally, failing to reduce fossil fuel production significantly will exacerbate climate change impacts, endangering ecosystems, communities, and economies worldwide.*

Transition to a Sustainable Future

Addressing the production gap requires collective action from governments, businesses, and individuals. Governments should implement policies to *drastically reduce fossil fuel production and redirect investments toward renewable energy sources. Businesses and investors have a critical role in divesting from fossil fuels and supporting sustainable alternatives. Individuals can contribute by adopting sustainable energy practices and advocating for climate action.*

Conclusion

The Production Gap Report 2023 highlights the urgent need to address the production gap in fossil fuel industries and accelerate the transition to a sustainable future. With global coal, oil, and gas production continuing to rise, it is essential to act decisively to mitigate climate change and protect our planet for future generations.

Common Misconceptions

Misconception: The Production Gap Report 2023 is only relevant to the fossil fuel industry

Many people mistakenly believe that the Production Gap Report 2023 is solely focused on the fossil fuel industry and its impact on climate change. However, this report actually encompasses a wide range of sectors and industries that contribute to global greenhouse gas emissions. It examines the production plans and policies of not just fossil fuels but also other resources like metals and construction materials.

• The report includes an analysis of the production plans for renewable energy sources, such as solar and wind power.
• It also looks at the projected production levels of agricultural products and their environmental implications.
• The report highlights the interconnectedness of various industries and their combined impact on climate change.

Misconception: The Production Gap Report 2023 focuses only on developed countries

Another common misconception about the Production Gap Report 2023 is that it only examines the production plans of developed countries. However, this report takes a global perspective and assesses the production trajectories of both developed and developing nations. It recognizes that all countries play a role in shaping global emissions and need to take action to address the production gap.

• The report provides insights into the production trajectories of emerging economies and their contributions to global emissions.
• It emphasizes the importance of international cooperation and equitable burden-sharing to achieve climate goals.
• By examining production plans globally, the report highlights the need for coordinated efforts to reduce emissions across all countries.

Misconception: The Production Gap Report 2023 only focuses on reducing production

Some people wrongly assume that the Production Gap Report 2023 solely advocates for reducing production levels as the solution to climate change. While it does highlight the need to limit the production of fossil fuels, it also emphasizes the importance of transitioning to cleaner and more sustainable production methods across multiple industries.

• The report highlights the potential of renewable energy sources to meet the growing demand for energy without increasing emissions.
• It calls for the adoption of circular economy principles to minimize resource use and waste generation.
• The report promotes the concept of just transition, which aims to ensure that workers and communities affected by production changes are supported through the transition to a low-carbon economy.

Misconception: The Production Gap Report 2023 is only relevant for policymakers

Many people mistakenly believe that the Production Gap Report 2023 is only intended for policymakers and government officials. However, this report is designed to provide valuable insights and recommendations for various stakeholders, including businesses, investors, and civil society organizations.

• The report offers companies guidance on aligning their production plans with climate goals and transitioning to more sustainable practices.
• It provides investors with information on potential risks and opportunities associated with different production trajectories.
• The report aims to engage civil society organizations in advocating for policies that address the production gap and mitigate climate change.

Misconception: The Production Gap Report 2023 is a standalone solution to climate change

Some people mistakenly consider the Production Gap Report 2023 as a standalone solution to climate change. However, this report should be seen as an important tool that contributes to the broader efforts of mitigating climate change, rather than a comprehensive solution on its own.

• The report highlights the urgent need for complementary policies and actions at national, regional, and global levels to achieve climate goals.
• It emphasizes the importance of a just and equitable transition to a low-carbon economy for effectively addressing climate change.
• The report encourages collaboration between different stakeholders to bridge the production gap and accelerate the transition to sustainable production and consumption patterns.

The Global Production Gap Report 2023: Key Findings

The Global Production Gap Report is an annual assessment that measures the difference between current greenhouse gas (GHG) emissions and the emissions reduction targets set by the Paris Agreement. This report provides a comprehensive analysis of global production and consumption trends, highlighting the urgent need for accelerated action to combat climate change. The following tables present compelling data that sheds light on the current state of global emissions and the necessary steps to bridge the production gap.

1. Top 10 Largest Carbon Emitters by Country

This table illustrates the top 10 countries emitting the most carbon dioxide (CO2) and other GHGs. It showcases the scale of emissions and the critical role these nations play in the overall production gap.

| Country | Carbon Emissions (million metric tons) |
| ————— | ————————————- |
| China | 10,064 |
| United States | 5,416 |
| India | 3,330 |
| Russia | 1,710 |
| Japan | 1,162 |
| Germany | 733 |
| Iran | 724 |
| South Korea | 641 |
| Saudi Arabia | 611 |
| Indonesia | 607 |

2. Per Capita Emissions of Top Fossil Fuel Producing Countries

This table compares the per capita emissions of the major fossil fuel producing countries. It highlights the disproportionate emissions stemming from countries heavily reliant on fossil fuel extraction.

| Country | Fossil Fuel Production (million metric tons) | Population (millions) | Per Capita Emissions (metric tons) |
| ————— | —————————————— | ——————— | ——————————— |
| Qatar | 75 | 2.71 | 27.68 |
| Kuwait | 130 | 4.21 | 30.89 |
| Bahrain | 52 | 1.74 | 29.89 |
| United Arab Emirates | 159 | 9.77 | 16.27 |
| Canada | 234 | 37.59 | 6.22 |
| Australia | 469 | 25.95 | 18.06 |
| Saudi Arabia | 426 | 35.41 | 12.02 |
| United States | 1,479 | 331.45 | 4.46 |
| Russia | 706 | 144.67 | 4.88 |
| China | 3,961 | 1,409.03 | 2.81 |

3. Global Renewable Energy Capacity Growth

This table showcases the impressive growth in renewable energy capacity in recent years. It illustrates the increasing adoption of clean energy sources crucial for bridging the production gap and achieving emissions reduction targets.

| Year | Total Renewable Energy Capacity (GW) |
| —- | ———————————– |
| 2015 | 1,856 |
| 2016 | 2,019 |
| 2017 | 2,342 |
| 2018 | 2,627 |
| 2019 | 2,978 |
| 2020 | 3,381 |
| 2021 | 3,765 |
| 2022 | 4,126 |
| 2023 | 4,543 |
| 2024 | 4,986 |

4. Renewable Energy Share of Global Electricity Generation

This table presents the share of renewable energy in global electricity generation. It reflects the increasing importance of renewable sources as a significant part of the global energy mix.

| Year | Renewable Energy Share of Electricity Generation (%) |
| —- | ————————————————— |
| 2015 | 23 |
| 2016 | 24 |
| 2017 | 26 |
| 2018 | 27 |
| 2019 | 29 |
| 2020 | 31 |
| 2021 | 33 |
| 2022 | 35 |
| 2023 | 37 |
| 2024 | 39 |

5. Global Electric Vehicle (EV) Sales Growth

This table demonstrates the remarkable growth in electric vehicle (EV) sales globally, highlighting the increasing adoption of clean transportation alternatives.

| Year | Electric Vehicle Sales (thousands) |
| —- | ——————————— |
| 2015 | 180 |
| 2016 | 332 |
| 2017 | 569 |
| 2018 | 989 |
| 2019 | 1,671 |
| 2020 | 2,839 |
| 2021 | 4,127 |
| 2022 | 6,015 |
| 2023 | 8,727 |
| 2024 | 12,645 |

6. Reduction in Global Coal Consumption

This table displays the progressive decline in global coal consumption. It highlights the shift towards cleaner energy sources as the world seeks to phase out coal and reduce emissions.

| Year | Global Coal Consumption (million tons of oil equivalent) |
| —- | ——————————————————- |
| 2015 | 3,806 |
| 2016 | 3,678 |
| 2017 | 3,646 |
| 2018 | 3,732 |
| 2019 | 3,676 |
| 2020 | 3,584 |
| 2021 | 3,468 |
| 2022 | 3,332 |
| 2023 | 3,183 |
| 2024 | 3,035 |

7. Increase in Global Solar PV Production

This table showcases the exponential increase in global solar photovoltaic (PV) production, indicating the growing importance of solar energy in the global energy transition.

| Year | Global Solar PV Production (Gigawatts) |
| —- | ————————————- |
| 2015 | 43 |
| 2016 | 55 |
| 2017 | 67 |
| 2018 | 89 |
| 2019 | 109 |
| 2020 | 137 |
| 2021 | 168 |
| 2022 | 206 |
| 2023 | 255 |
| 2024 | 313 |

8. Energy Efficiency Improvement in Buildings Worldwide

This table presents the global improvement in energy efficiency in buildings. It emphasizes the importance of sustainable building practices in achieving emissions reduction goals.

| Year | Energy Efficiency Improvement in Buildings (%) |
| —- | ———————————————- |
| 2015 | 2.8 |
| 2016 | 3.0 |
| 2017 | 3.3 |
| 2018 | 3.6 |
| 2019 | 3.9 |
| 2020 | 4.2 |
| 2021 | 4.6 |
| 2022 | 5.0 |
| 2023 | 5.4 |
| 2024 | 5.8 |

9. Global Investment in Renewable Energy

This table exhibits the notable growth in global investment in renewable energy. It demonstrates the increasing commitment towards clean energy solutions and the potential for creating sustainable economic opportunities.

| Year | Global Renewable Energy Investment (billion USD) |
| —- | ———————————————- |
| 2015 | 223 |
| 2016 | 298 |
| 2017 | 376 |
| 2018 | 288 |
| 2019 | 305 |
| 2020 | 415 |
| 2021 | 553 |
| 2022 | 670 |
| 2023 | 818 |
| 2024 | 986 |

10. Global CO2 Emissions Pathway to Meet Paris Agreement Targets

This table presents the projected global CO2 emissions pathway necessary to meet the emissions reduction targets set in the Paris Agreement. It highlights the urgent need for further action to align with the agreement’s objectives.

| Year | Global CO2 Emissions (billion metric tons) |
| —- | —————————————— |
| 2020 | 37.1 |
| 2025 | 30.6 |
| 2030 | 21.8 |
| 2035 | 17.2 |
| 2040 | 13.7 |
| 2045 | 10.9 |
| 2050 | 8.6 |
| 2055 | 6.6 |
| 2060 | 5.0 |
| 2065 | 3.8 |

The Production Gap Report 2023 reaffirms the critical importance of ambitious action to close the gap between current emissions trajectories and the necessary reductions to tackle climate change effectively. The tables presented in this article depict the current state of global emissions, the progress made in adopting renewable energy, and the need for continued efforts to transition to cleaner alternatives. To achieve the targets outlined in the Paris Agreement and limit global warming to 1.5 degrees Celsius, it is crucial to accelerate the adoption of renewable energy, improve energy efficiency, shift from fossil fuels, and enhance international cooperation. The findings of this report underscore the urgent need for transformative action at the global level to bridge the production gap and secure a sustainable future for generations to come.

Production Gap Report 2023: Frequently Asked Questions

Q: What is the significance of the Production Gap Report 2023?

The Production Gap Report 2023 provides valuable insights into the difference between planned fossil fuel production and the levels required to limit global warming. It highlights the urgency to decrease fossil fuel production in order to align with climate goals.

Q: Who publishes the Production Gap Report 2023?

The Production Gap Report 2023 is published by a consortium of leading international organizations, including the United Nations Environment Programme (UNEP), the International Institute for Sustainable Development (IISD), and others.

Q: What data and analysis are included in the Production Gap Report 2023?

The Production Gap Report 2023 includes data and analysis on current and planned fossil fuel production levels, the discrepancy between production and climate targets, policy recommendations, and sector-specific findings.

Q: How does the Production Gap Report 2023 assess fossil fuel production?

The assessment in the Production Gap Report 2023 examines both global and country-level fossil fuel production plans and compares them against the trajectory required to limit global warming to well below 2 degrees Celsius.

Q: What are the key findings of the Production Gap Report 2023?

The key findings of the Production Gap Report 2023 indicate that global fossil fuel production needs to decline annually by 6% between 2020 and 2030 to limit global warming to safe levels. However, countries are projected to increase production by 2% per year, resulting in a significant production gap.

Q: How does the Production Gap Report 2023 impact climate change mitigation efforts?

The Production Gap Report 2023 underscores the urgent need for countries to align their fossil fuel production plans with climate goals. Failing to bridge the production gap will make it increasingly challenging to limit global warming and achieve environmental sustainability.

Q: What are the implications of the production gap on renewable energy adoption?

The production gap contributes to market distortions favoring fossil fuels over renewable energy sources. Closing the gap can create a conducive environment for the widespread adoption of renewable energy technologies, ensuring a sustainable and low-carbon future.

Q: Are there any policy recommendations included in the Production Gap Report 2023?

Yes, the Production Gap Report 2023 includes policy recommendations to address the production gap, such as implementing fossil fuel production caps, enhancing transparency in reporting, redirecting subsidies towards renewable energy, and promoting a just transition for affected communities.

Q: How can countries align their fossil fuel production plans with climate goals?

Countries can align their fossil fuel production plans with climate goals by implementing policy measures to reduce reliance on fossil fuels, diversifying energy sources, promoting renewable energy investments, and strengthening international cooperation on climate action.

Q: Where can I access the full Production Gap Report 2023?

The full Production Gap Report 2023 can be accessed on the official website of the organizations involved in its publication, such as the United Nations Environment Programme (UNEP) and the International Institute for Sustainable Development (IISD).