Pat Upton
Ceist:24 Dr. Upton asked the Minister for the Environment the emission of carbon dioxide per unit of GDP; the way in which it compares with other OECD countries; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [6323/95]
Written Answers. - Carbon Dioxide Emissions.
Pat Upton
Ceist:47 Dr. Upton asked the Minister for the Environment the Irish carbon dioxide emissions for each year since 1990; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [6324/95]
I propose to take Questions Nos. 24 and 47 together.
Total Irish carbon dioxide emissions in each of the years 1990 to 1993 were as follows: 1990, 30.7 million tonnes; 1991, 31.3 million tonnes; 1992, 30.9 million tonnes; 1993, 31.9 million tonnes. Data for 1994 is not yet available. The 4 per cent increase in emissions since 1990 is somewhat lower than had been anticipated. This comparatively small increase at a time of strong economic growth is explained by the increasing energy efficiency of the Irish economy and a shift in national fuel mix from carbon intensive fuels, such as coal and peat, to less carbon intensive fuels such as oil and gas. The Government will continue to promote its strategy for carbon dioxide abatement.
OECD figures indicate that for 1992 Irish emissions of CO 2 per unit, $1,000, of GDP stood at 1.24 compared to OECD and EU averages of 0.96 and 0.98 respectively. The ratio of energy consumption of GDP is similar in Ireland to the EU average. These comparisons reflect the fact that Ireland derives a greater proportion of its energy requirements from carbon based fuels and does not use nuclear energy. It will however be the objective to reduce the ratio of Irish CO 2 emissions to GDP.