UK emissions fall 2% in 2025, down 54% since 1990

Carbon dioxide remained the dominant gas, accounting for 78 per cent of total emissions. The decline in 2025 was largely driven by reduced industrial activity and the complete phase-out of coal in electricity generation following the closure of the UK’s last coal-fired power station in September 2024, the Department for Energy Security & Net Zero said in a press release.

The industry sector recorded the sharpest fall, with emissions dropping 12 per cent due to blast furnace closures in the iron and steel segment and lower gas consumption. Fuel supply emissions also declined by 5 per cent, while emissions from buildings and product use fell by 2 per cent amid reduced heating demand.

In contrast, domestic transport emissions rose by 2 per cent, driven by higher petrol and diesel consumption. The sector remained the largest contributor, accounting for 31 per cent of total emissions, with carbon dioxide accounting for 98 per cent of emissions for this sector.

Electricity supply emissions edged down by 1 per cent, supported by coal’s elimination and a record 52 per cent share of renewable energy in total generation. Over the long term, emissions from electricity generation have fallen 82 per cent since 1990, underscoring the shift towards cleaner energy sources.

Overall energy consumption has decreased by around 25 per cent since 1990, aided by improved efficiency and reduced reliance on energy-intensive industries. Temperature-adjusted estimates show a similar downward trend, with emissions falling 2.1 per cent YoY in 2025.

Quarterly trends varied during the year, with a slight increase in emissions in the first quarter due to higher heating demand, followed by declines in the remaining quarters.

Despite sustained progress, the UK’s emissions continue to reflect sectoral imbalances, particularly in transport, which remains a key challenge for future decarbonisation efforts.

Fibre2Fashion News Desk (SG)