Ageing society in developed countries challenges carbon mitigation

Populations in developed countries are ageing. However, the impact of senior citizens’ consumption on global carbon mitigation is poorly understood. Here we find that citizens have played a leading role driving up GHG emissions past decade and way to becoming largest contributor. Considering greenhouse gas footprint household across age groups 32 countries, contribution national total consumption-based increased from 25.2% 32.7% between 2005 2015. Seniors United States Australia highest per capita footprint, twice Western average. The trend mainly due changes expenditure patterns seniors. increasing will probably drive domestic production yet limited effects international leakage. demographic change poses more challenges local calls for deeper public efforts. A large proportion population be years ahead. this group comprised an share decade, with high carbon-intensive products, continue future.