Insee Première · April 2026 · n° 2099

The carbon footprint of tourism consumption in 2023 A carbon intensity 75% higher than that of total consumption

In 2023, the carbon footprint of tourism consumption was estimated at 75 million tonnes of CO₂ equivalent (Mt CO₂ eq). It corresponds to the amount of greenhouse gases (GHGs) emissions generated to produce the goods and services consumed in France by both resident and non‑resident tourists. This estimate includes emissions directly linked to this consumption, as well as those resulting from the use of fuel purchased by tourists and the occupancy of second homes. The carbon intensity of tourism consumption reached 0.35 kg CO₂ eq per euro spent, which was 75% higher than that of total French final demand.

Tourist travel accounted for 65% of the carbon footprint. 42% of the GHGs emissions in the footprint were generated abroad to produce goods and services, including fuels, used by the French tourism industry or consumed directly by tourists. One‑third of the carbon footprint was imputable to consumption by non-resident tourists.

The carbon footprint of tourism consumption increased by 3% in 2023 compared to 2022, but remained at a level significantly below its 2019 level (-17%), just before the COVID‑19 health crisis.