CO2 emissions 'rise at fastest rate since 1969'

Global air quality looked to have taken a battering in 2010, as new figures have revealed that energy consumption was extremely high.

BP has published details which have suggested that the widespread use of fossil fuels last year led to the fastest rate of emissions growth since 1969.

It stated the economic recovery throughout the 12 months led to levels of energy demand "not seen since the aftermath of the 1973 oil price shocks".

The 60th annual BP Statistical Review of World Energy also revealed that China overtook the US as the biggest consumer.

BP chief executive Bob Dudley said that despite their huge reliance on power, the Chinese do harbour concerns about the environment.

"They are worried about energy security and climate change - just as we are," he remarked.

Earlier this week, the Chinese government announced it would introduce legislation in order to limit the amount of heavy metal pollution caused by the country.

Posted by Lauren Steadman