World’s richest 1% have already used fair share of emissions for 2026, says Oxfam

The Guardian - World NewsCenter-LeftEN 2 min read 100% complete by Rosie Peters-McDonaldJanuary 10, 2026 at 06:00 AM

AI Summary

medium article 2 min

Oxfam analysis reveals the world's wealthiest 1% will have exhausted their fair share of carbon emissions for 2026 within the first ten days of the year, while the richest 0.1% did so in just three days. These emissions disproportionately impact lower-income countries and vulnerable populations, who face the worst consequences of climate change. The report highlights the significant carbon footprint of the super-rich, driven by both their consumption and investments in polluting industries. Oxfam urges the UK government to address this disparity by increasing taxes on climate-polluting wealth and corporations. Achieving the Paris Agreement's 1.5C warming limit requires the richest 1% to reduce emissions by 97% by 2030.

Key Entities & Roles

Key Player Opposition Context

Oxfam GB 40% Beth John 50% Paris Agreement 60% UK ×270% Oxfam ×490%

Keywords

carbon emissions 100% richest 1% 90% climate crisis 80% oxfam 70% climate change 70% extreme wealth 60% climate justice 60% low-income countries 50% taxation 50% paris agreement 40%