WMO
UN World Meteorological Organization
Record Highs in Greenhouse Gases
WMO latest report shows greenhouse gases reached new levels in 2023. Carbon dioxide (CO2) levels, a key greenhouse gas, are rising faster than ever before, according to data analyzed by the WMO.
Climate Change Implications
CO2, methane, and nitrous oxide are the main greenhouse gases. CO2 remains in the atmosphere for a long time, ensuring warming continues for decades even if emissions are reduced. Since 2004, CO2 levels rose from 377.1 ppm to 420 ppm, a 42.9 ppm increase (11.4%) in 20 years.
Consequences of Rising Greenhouse Gases
Increased temperatures accelerate glacier and ice retreat, sea level rise, ocean heat, and acidification. Higher temperatures expose more people to extreme heat and endanger species and ecosystems, affecting global economies.
Key Contributing Factors
Events like forest fires and the El Niño phenomenon fueled greenhouse gas increases in late 2023. Nearly half of CO2 emissions stay in the atm…
Listen to this episode with a 7-day free trial
Subscribe to THE UN BRIEF to listen to this post and get 7 days of free access to the full post archives.
