In 2024, the United Nations warned that carbon dioxide concentrations in the atmosphere have reached a new record high. This increase is the highest annual increase since reliable systematic surface measurements began in 1957. For context, this year carbon dioxide concentrations soared to 424 ppm. That’s a huge increase of 3.5 ppm over last year. This unprecedented increase further highlights the need for urgent and immediate global climate action.
Since 2004, when carbon dioxide levels were 377 ppm, the atmosphere looks very different. This change from pre-industrial levels, measured before 1750, is a 152% increase. This dramatic shift highlights the escalating climate crisis and emphasizes the challenges faced in meeting international climate commitments.
Unprecedented Increase and Its Implications
The new research shows that carbon dioxide is responsible for around 66% of the overall warming impact on the climate. This is a shocking statistic, particularly as this latest increase is in direct opposition to all of the global promises made under the 2015 Paris Agreement. The agreement aimed to limit global warming to “well below” 2 degrees Celsius above pre-industrial levels and strive for a maximum increase of 1.5 degrees Celsius.
Oksana Tarasova, a representative from the World Meteorological Organization (WMO), stated, “What we are doing is making measurements, delivering the data.” This data is essential for educating policymakers and the public about the urgent need to reduce all emissions.
Against the backdrop of the largest-ever annual increase in carbon dioxide concentrations, capturing the gulf between emissions targets and reality. Tarasova knows that time is running out, and so are we. We need to make sure we’re prioritizing the fastest possible emissions reductions, or risk setting off a dangerous domino effect. This shows that there is an urgent and consequential need to act now and avoid the highly potential catastrophic effects.
Long-term Trends and Global Commitment
The trend of increasing carbon dioxide concentrations over the last few decades paints a concerning picture for future climate stability. Meanwhile, if we look back the last two decades, 2004-2024, carbon dioxide has skyrocketed by almost 47 ppm. This disturbing jump underscores that the steps we’re taking to reduce emissions simply aren’t enough and not working to turn the tide.
The WMO report reiterates the need to act with urgency and make net-zero anthropogenic CO2 emissions the priority. To make this goal our primary organizing principle in climate action. This goal is supported by scientific consensus on the best ways to minimize the impacts of climate change and stabilize global temperatures.
“Achieving net-zero anthropogenic CO2 emissions must be the focus of climate action.” – WMO report
The urgency of this mission is heightened by the increasingly alarming pace climate change has taken in recent years. The new carbon dioxide record reminds us of the long journey we have ahead of us. Not only does it serve to protect people’s lives, it highlights the importance of global cooperation to address this critical international challenge.
The Path Forward
Especially as countries around the world bump up against rising carbon emissions, climate policies of much greater strength and quality are clearly needed. Governments and organizations must prioritize sustainable practices and invest in technologies that reduce greenhouse gas emissions. Moving rapidly to renewable energy sources, improving our energy efficiency, and increasing energy conservation are all vital components of the plan that will get us to our climate target.
Additionally, public awareness and engagement are key to pushing climate action. Individuals, communities, and businesses need to understand how their choices affect carbon emissions. Their actions must go beyond mere virtue signaling and lobby for changes that promote a truly sustainable future.
“Climate change is not a religion. It’s a science.” This statement underscores the importance of relying on scientific data to inform decisions and drive policy changes that can lead to a sustainable future.