Carbon Dioxide Levels Surge

January 20, 2025

In early 2025, atmospheric carbon dioxide levels are projected to reach unprecedented heights, raising concerns over climate change. The Mauna Loa Observatory in Hawaii indicates that CO2 concentrations will peak at 429.6 ppm, the highest in over two million years. This increase is alarming as it contradicts the goals of the Paris Agreement aimed at limiting global warming.

Record CO2 Increase

Between 2023 and 2024, CO2 levels rose by 3.58 ppm, the fastest annual increase on record. This surpassed the Met Office’s prediction of 2.84 ppm. Satellite data confirms global increases, driven by fossil fuel emissions and reduced carbon capture.

Fossil Fuel Emissions

Global carbon emissions from fossil fuels reached a record 41.6 billion tonnes in 2024, up from 40.6 billion tonnes in 2023. This surge is attributed to increased energy demands and reliance on fossil fuels.

Impact of Wildfires

Wildfires released approximately 7.3 billion tonnes of CO2 in 2023. Burning forests contribute to atmospheric CO2, exacerbating climate change.

Climate Change Consequences

Higher CO2 levels trap heat, leading to severe weather events. In 2024, global temperatures surpassed previous records, causing extreme heatwaves, droughts, and floods.

Human Toll of Extreme Weather

In India alone, over 3,200 people died due to extreme weather events in 2024. These incidents displaced millions and brought into light the human cost of climate change.

Future Projections

The World Meteorological Organization predicts continued temperature rises through 2025, likely making it one of the hottest years on record. Extreme weather events are ranked as a top global risk.

International Action Needed

Experts stress the urgency for emissions cuts to limit global warming to 1.5°C. International cooperation is essential to halt the accumulation of greenhouse gases and mitigate climate impacts.

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