Colorado's energy-related CO2 emissions are falling
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Colorado's energy-related CO2 emissions per capita dropped 33% from 2005 to 2023 — outpacing the U.S. average of 30%, per federal data.
Why it matters: Colorado has made gains in cutting emissions to curb climate change.
What they're saying: "We will continue to pursue ambitious climate goals, grounded in the best science," Michael Ogletree, the senior director of state air quality programs, told Axios Denver in a statement.
State of play: Democratic Gov. Jared Polis is pushing for more than 80% renewable electricity by 2030 and 100% net-zero greenhouse gas emissions by 2050.
The big picture: Emissions fell in all 50 states between 2005 to 2023, largely from burning less coal, while wind and solar added momentum.
Yes, but: The Trump administration's pro-coal, anti-renewables agenda — including this week's clean energy cuts hitting Colorado — could undercut that progress.
What's next: The U.S. Energy Information Administration expects emissions to rise 1% this year, fueled by surging demand from data centers and heavy industry.