The world sets new record for fossil fuel use in 2023

Despite the rise of renewable energy, global fossil fuel consumption hit a record high last year, pushing CO2 emissions to more than 40 gigatonnes.

Jillian Ambrose reports for The Guardian.

In short:

• The world’s fossil fuel use increased by 1.5% in 2023, reaching 505 exajoules.
• Developing countries, especially India, are driving this rise, with fossil fuels making up 89% of India's energy use.
• Renewable energy sources like wind and solar also saw growth, but not enough to offset overall energy demand.

Key quote:

"In a year where we have seen the contribution of renewables reaching a new record high, ever increasing global energy demand means the share coming from fossil fuels has remained virtually unchanged at just over 80% for yet another year."

— Simon Virley, UK head of energy and natural resources at KPMG

Why this matters:

Rising fossil fuel use worsens climate change, increasing global CO2 emissions. Despite advancements in renewable energy, the slow transition away from fossil fuels endangers environmental and public health.