The impact of the 2008–2009 global financial crisis (GFC) on emissions has been short-lived

According to latest research Global carbon dioxide emissions from fossil-fuel combustion and cement production grew 5.9% in 2010, surpassed 9 Pg of carbon (Pg C) for the first time, and more than offset the 1.4% decrease in 2009. On average, fossil fuel emissions have risen by 3.1 per cent each year between 2000 and 2010

Evidence from atmospheric measurements show actual emissions tend to be greater than declared. Under the Kyoto Protocol, nations are required to declare their greenhouse gas         emissions.

In 2008-09 emissions temporarily decreased. Last years high growth was caused by both emerging and developed economies. Rich countries continued to outsource part of their emissions to emerging economies through international trade.

Nearly 50% of the emissions remained in the atmosphere, where CO₂ concentration reached 389.6 parts per million. The balance emissions were taken up by the ocean and land reservoirs.

The authors say "The global financial crisis has helped developed countries meet their production emission commitments as promised in the Kyoto Protocol and Copenhagen Accord, but its impact has been short-lived and pre-existing challenges remain."

Journal reference 

Rapid growth in CO₂ emissions after the 2008–2009 global financial crisis

Glen P. Peters, Gregg Marland, Corinne Le Quéré, Thomas Boden, Josep G. Canadell & Michael R. Raupach

Nature Climate Change (2011) doi:10.1038/nclimate1332 Published online 04 December 2011