Carbon sink countries leading the way in net-zero emissions

In 2019, before the COVID-19 pandemic brought many economies to a standstill, the world emitted 58.5 gigatonnes of carbon dioxide equivalent (GtCO2e). Despite the adoption of the Paris Agreement by 190 countries in 2015, greenhouse gas emissions are still higher today. Accordingly, countries around the world are working on long-term plans to decarbonize various sectors including energy, electricity, heating, manufacturing, transport and agriculture.

Carbon sink countries, on the other hand, have already achieved net-zero emissions, meaning they are absorbing more CO2 from the atmosphere each year than they are emitting. These countries tend to have small populations, limited industrial output and strict environmental protections, which helps them maintain low carbon emissions. Many of these countries also have large areas of rainforests, which naturally absorb CO2 from the atmosphere.

Potential environmental impact

Bhutan, for example, relies on subsistence farming, sustainable forestry and tourism for its economic activity. The country has long pursued policies that promote sustainable forestry management and has protected national parks covering two fifths of its area, connected by habitat corridors that allow wildlife to move freely between them.

Comoros, a small volcanic archipelago off the east coast of Africa, has low emissions from agriculture, fishing and livestock, which account for about half of its economy. The country also has strict environmental protections in place covering almost a quarter of its landmass.

Gabon, a central African country with Congo rainforests covering 88% of its landmass, has a strong commitment to non-deforestation and sustainable management of its natural resources. As a result, Gabon emits very little CO2 while absorbing large quantities, and the UN has called it a model of environmental conservation.

Guyana, on the northern coast of South America and surrounded by Amazon rainforest, has already achieved net-zero emissions and is aiming for a further 70% cut in emissions by 2030. However, the country became a new oil producer in 2019, which could potentially challenge its net-zero status.

Madagascar, an island nation off the east coast of Africa, relies on agriculture and fishing for its main economic output. While it is currently a net-zero emitter, large-scale deforestation has led to a quarter of the country’s forest canopy cover disappearing since 2000. If this trend continues, Madagascar could become a net CO2 emitter by 2030.

Niue, a small coral island in the South Pacific Ocean, has a population of around 2,000 people and relies on fishing, agriculture and tourism for its main economic activities. The country is a net carbon sink, contributing just 0.0001% to global greenhouse gas emissions. However, Niue is vulnerable to the impacts of climate change, including sea level rise, ocean acidification and an increasing threat from cyclones.

In conclusion, carbon sink countries have already achieved net-zero emissions and serve as important models for the rest of the world as we work towards this crucial goal. It is important for all countries to support these efforts and continue working towards reducing their own carbon emissions.