Rising Carbon Dioxide Levels and Climate Change
The latest data from the World Meteorological Organization (WMO) indicates that the atmospheric concentration of carbon dioxide (CO2) increased by a record amount between 2023 and 2024.
- Globally averaged CO2 concentration reached 423.9 parts per million in 2024, up by 3.5 ppm from 2023.
- This yearly increase is significantly higher compared to the annual average during the 2011-2020 decade.
- The year 2024 recorded the highest global temperature, at 1.55 degrees Celsius above pre-industrial levels, surpassing the critical 1.5 degree Celsius threshold.
Failure of International Climate Framework
Despite global efforts, the increase in CO2 concentrations reflects the inadequacy of agreements like the Paris Agreement in significantly reducing emissions.
Trends in CO2 Concentrations
- CO2 concentrations have consistently risen over the years with no declines in the last 40 years.
- The current concentration of 423.9 ppm is 152% higher than pre-industrial levels.
- CO2 emissions result from both natural and man-made activities, with about half of man-made emissions absorbed by natural sinks.
Comparative Impact of Greenhouse Gases
- CO2 makes up over 90% of accumulated GHGs but is less potent in heat-trapping than methane (CH4) and nitrous oxide (N2O).
- CH4 is at least 25% more potent, and N2O is about 270 times more potent than CO2.
- CO2 has a lasting impact, contributing 66% to warming since pre-industrial times.
Reasons for the Increase
- The spike in CO2 between 2023-2024 was partly due to decreased absorption by natural sinks and increased forest fires.
- Global warming reduces the ability of oceans and lands to absorb CO2, exacerbating the imbalance.
Other Greenhouse Gases
- The concentration of CH4 and N2O also increased in 2024, though at a lower rate than the previous decade.
- CH4 concentrations rose by 8 parts per billion to 1,942 ppb, and N2O by 1 ppb to 338 ppb.
Challenges Ahead
The WMO's findings highlight the difficulty in controlling both man-made and natural processes contributing to GHG accumulation. Despite a decade since the Paris Agreement, global emissions continue to increase, and the 2030 emission targets are unlikely to be met.
