Figures released by the Belgian Climate Change Service show that Belgium’s greenhouse gas emissions increased slightly in 2024. This was the first increase in the country’s greenhouse gas emissions since 2021.
In 2024, excluding emissions and removals linked to land use and forestry (LULUCF), emissions rose by 0.2% compared with 2023. This equates to 98 megatonnes of CO2. The increase follows a sizable 4.7% fall in emission in 2023.
The increase in greenhouse gas emissions in 2024 was largely driven by higher emissions from heavy industry in Flanders, particularly from the metal, chemical and refining sectors. This was partially offset by a reduction in emissions in Wallonia.
Despite the modest increase in 2024, overall emissions remain 32.6% below 1990 levels. However, Belgium is aiming for a 47% reduction by 2030 and climate neutrality by 2050. If these targets are to be reached emission levels would need to fall twice as fast as is currently the case.
Total greenhouse emissions Including LULUCF stood at 97.4 megatonnes in 2024. This represents a marginal decrease of 0.03% compared with 2023.
Carbon dioxide remains the dominant greenhouse gas, accounting for 87.2% of emissions, followed by methane (7.1%) and nitrous oxide (3.9%).
Emissions from transport remain a key concern. Emissions from the sector have risen by 18.8% since 1990. They currently account for more than a quarter of total emissions. Heating in non-residential buildings has also increased, while most other sectors have seen declines.