CO2 Emission 1990-2006

This selected "Daily Chart" from The Economist is telling.
The chart, which details the rate of change of CO2 emissions, shows some surprising details. Not surprising are Canada and Australia's emissions rising faster than America's. Though America has done little to mitigate its emissions, with the rise of production in the Canadian oil sands, and Australia's increased mining exports it is not inconceivable that America would be increasing at a lessor, though still alarming rate. Ireland's emissions are rising quickly even though the majority of growth in the country is found in the high tech sector. This is, presumably, caused by both the increased demand for energy as well as an increased level prosperity. Ireland does have one of the highest per capita GDP in the EU after years of, by western standards, high growth.
The former eastern bloc nations have seen the most dramatic drop in emissions, but this is more likely because of a breakdown in their heavy industry sector versus any commitment to environmental concerns.
Germany, however, is down almost 20%, with Britain and Sweden in the 10% area. Indeed the EU has quite a few nations making serious strides to reducing their emissions. Their successes show proof that a nation can still prosper while helping to reduce climate damage. (Current financial crisis withholding).