Estonia’s greenhouse gas emissions fell by 9 per cent in 2024, driven by a significant transition from fossil fuels to renewable energy, according to data released by the Ministry of Climate and the Estonian Environmental Research Centre.
The national inventory shows total emissions reached 12 million tonnes of carbon dioxide equivalent in 2024. This represents a 66.5 per cent decrease from 1990 levels, with the energy sector remaining the primary driver of the decline. Emissions in that sector dropped 16 per cent as fossil fuel electricity generation fell by nearly 19 per cent, while renewable production grew by approximately 23 per cent.
Energy emissions fell, but other sectors showed mixed results. Transport emissions rose by 1 per cent and made up 21 per cent of the national total. Passenger car emissions remained stable, but heavy duty vehicle mileage increased by 22 per cent. Agriculture also saw a 2 per cent rise in emissions linked to manure management and the use of organic fertilisers.
The land use and forestry sector recorded a 23.5 per cent reduction in net emissions, largely due to lower logging volumes. Additionally, emissions from the shale oil industry fell by 7.5 per cent, partly due to maintenance activities and changes in fuel quality.
“Greenhouse gas emissions reflect broader societal changes,” said Kristi Klaas, Deputy Secretary General of the Ministry of Climate. “In 2024, Estonia’s electricity production underwent a significant shift towards cleaner solutions. Electricity generation based on fossil fuels decreased by nearly 19 per cent over the year, while renewable energy production grew by approximately 23 per cent. At the same time, the average electricity market price fell by 4 per cent compared to the previous year. This trend clearly indicates that the role of renewable energy in the market is increasing, contributing to lower electricity prices. We must continue to develop and implement efficient solutions across all sectors that benefit our people, economy, and environment alike.”