As the world intensifies its fight against climate change, large corporations face increasing scrutiny for contributing to greenhouse gas (GHG) emissions. This blog explores some of the world’s largest companies known for contributing significant levels of CO₂, methane, and other GHGs. Focusing on energy giants like ExxonMobil, Chevron, Gazprom, BP, and Shell, this is a glimpse into each company's emissions footprint and impact on the global climate.
1. ExxonMobil
ExxonMobil has long been identified as one of the top global emitters. A recent study links the company to 3.6 gigatonnes of CO₂ emissions over the past seven years, accounting for around 1.4% of total global emissions. This significant footprint largely stems from ExxonMobil's vast extraction, refining, and distribution operations.
ExxonMobil’s extensive oil extraction and refining operations are major sources of GHGs. As one of the largest publicly traded energy companies, it operates globally, managing large-scale projects that contribute substantial emissions from both upstream and downstream activities. Additionally, the company has faced criticism for its historical opposition to environmental regulations and, at times, for its role in questioning climate science.
2. CRH (Oldcastle)
CRH, one of the largest building materials suppliers in North America, has operations spanning all 50 U.S. states, six Canadian provinces, and numerous international markets. This Dublin-based conglomerate’s acquisition spree has significantly expanded its influence — and its environmental footprint. Notably, CRH purchased $7 billion worth of assets from Holcim and Lafarge following their 2015 merger. This deal included cement plants across Montana and the Great Lakes region, as well as Holcim’s Canadian holdings.
The company’s $1.3 billion acquisition of C.R. Laurence further solidified its dominance in the professional glazing industry. However, the sheer scale of CRH’s operations and its reliance on energy-intensive materials like cement and aggregates place it among the top contributors to GHG emissions in the construction sector.
3. Cemex
Cemex, a Mexican multinational, is a major player in the production of cement, ready-mix concrete, and aggregates. In the U.S., its revenue reached $3.9 billion in 2015, driven by a surge in residential and commercial construction. Despite these gains, Cemex faced challenges in its domestic market, where price hikes for materials caused an 11% dip in Mexican sales.
While Cemex has made strides in boosting efficiency, its production processes remain energy-intensive and heavily reliant on fossil fuels. Cement manufacturing alone is responsible for a significant percentage of the world’s carbon dioxide emissions, and Cemex’s extensive global operations contribute to this troubling statistic.
4. Chevron
Chevron, another major oil and gas player, is also linked to high emissions, with studies placing its GHG footprint close to ExxonMobil's. Chevron’s emissions come primarily from extensive oil and gas production activities, contributing to significant CO₂ output annually.
Chevron’s high emissions are associated with its production and transportation of oil, natural gas, and petroleum products. Additionally, Chevron has a significant presence in liquefied natural gas (LNG) projects, which generate CO₂ emissions during extraction, processing, and transport stages. This reliance on fossil fuels solidifies its position as a major contributor to atmospheric carbon.
5. HeidelbergCement (Lehigh Hanson)
German construction heavyweight HeidelbergCement has steadily expanded its influence in the global market. The company described 2015 as its most successful year since the financial crisis, thanks to revenue growth, strategic price adjustments, and reduced energy costs. That same year, HeidelbergCement acquired a 45% stake in Italcementi, a deal that positioned the company as a global leader in aggregates and a top-three producer in both cement and ready-mix concrete.
Despite these milestones, HeidelbergCement’s environmental impact is a growing concern. Cement production is among the most carbon-intensive industrial processes, and HeidelbergCement’s expansive portfolio amplifies its contribution to GHG emissions. The company’s continued growth, while economically impressive, underscores the need for innovative solutions to mitigate its environmental footprint.
Enhanced accountability, investment in cleaner technologies, and a shift away from fossil fuels will be key if these industry giants are to make significant progress in reducing their environmental impact.
Comments