Why has the carbon dioxide level stabilized in the United States recently?

The stabilization of carbon dioxide levels in the United States can primarily be attributed to the transition from coal to natural gas as a dominant fuel source for electricity generation. Natural gas is more efficient and cleaner than coal, emitting significantly less carbon dioxide when combusted. This shift has been driven by advances in extraction technologies, such as fracking, which have made natural gas more accessible and affordable.

As power plants have increasingly adopted natural gas, a notable decrease in carbon emissions has occurred. While other factors, such as improvements in energy efficiency, renewable energy implementation, regulatory measures, and public awareness, play roles in reducing greenhouse gas emissions, the direct impact of natural gas on displacing coal is a central reason for the observed stabilization of carbon dioxide levels in the United States recently. This transition highlights the importance of fuel choice in addressing climate change and achieving emissions targets.