In 2008, the carbon footprint of Central government was approximately 65 million tonnes of CO₂ equivalent (CO₂e), an increase of 12 per cent since 2000. Carbon emissions peaked in 2004 at almost 70 million tonnes CO₂e.

(At present there is no intention to repeat this research – 2008 data is the most up to date information)

Why is this important – The UK government’s carbon footprint accounts for approximately 7 per cent of the total UK carbon footprint.

• Consumables account for the highest proportion of the government carbon footprint, 25 per cent. The emissions from consumables in the government carbon footprint increased by 25 per cent between 2000 and 2008.

• The proportion of emissions that come from products produced abroad has been increasing. In 2000, 28 per cent of the government carbon footprint emissions were from products produced abroad. In 2008 the proportion increased to 35 per cent.

Data download

The key facts publication contains a downloadable version of this page
Sustainable Consumption and Production Indicators
Government policy on Green economy, green business
Centre for Sustainable Accounting