Story perspectives

2024 Sees Record CO2 Surge, Urgent Emission Cuts Needed

10/15/2025

Summary

Story summary

According to the World Meteorological Organization (WMO), in 2024 atmospheric carbon dioxide (CO2) rose by 3.5 ppm to a record high—the largest annual increase since 1957.
The rise is linked to human activities and wildfires, weakening the atmosphere's capacity to absorb CO2.
Methane and nitrous oxide also reached new highs.
Ko Barrett, Deputy Secretary-General of the World Meteorological Organization (WMO), urged emission cuts to curb climate change and extreme weather.

History

Historical Context

The Kyoto Protocol, adopted on December 11, 1997, aimed to reduce greenhouse gas emissions among 37 industrialized nations by an average of 5.2% below 1990 levels by 2012. Despite significant commitments, the U.S. never ratified the treaty, and Canada withdrew in 2012. The recent increase of 3.5 ppm in atmospheric CO2 in 2024 highlights ongoing challenges in achieving climate targets.

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Story summary

According to the World Meteorological Organization (WMO), in 2024 atmospheric carbon dioxide (CO2) rose by 3.5 ppm to a record high—the largest annual increase since 1957.
The rise is linked to human activities and wildfires, weakening the atmosphere's capacity to absorb CO2.
Methane and nitrous oxide also reached new highs.
Ko Barrett, Deputy Secretary-General of the World Meteorological Organization (WMO), urged emission cuts to curb climate change and extreme weather.

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