Global carbon emissions dip 0.4% in 2026, but Iran war oil shock is the main driver, scientists say
wlky.comA new study from the Global Carbon Project finds that worldwide carbon dioxide emissions from fossil fuels dropped slightly in 2026, by about 0.4%. The decline is largely attributed to the Iran war closing the Strait of Hormuz, which reduced oil use due to higher prices. Coal emissions actually rose, and overall CO2 including land use went up 1%. Scientists caution that this is not a sign of structural change. Previous dips in 2009 and 2020 were followed by rebounds. However, China's emissions drop is notable, and some experts see signs of a peak. The article includes perspectives on whether this is a temporary shock or a lasting shift.