The World Meteorological Organization (WMO), in its Greenhouse Gas Bulletin 2025, has reported that global carbon dioxide (CO₂) concentrations have reached the highest levels ever recorded.

• The findings come ahead of the UN Climate Change Conference (COP30) in Belém, Brazil, underscoring the urgency for emission reductions and enhanced global monitoring.

Key Findings of the WMO Report

• Largest Annual Increase: Between 2023 and 2024, the global average CO₂ concentration rose by 3.5 parts per million (ppm) — the largest annual increase since modern measurements began in 1957.
• Current Levels: Atmospheric CO₂ levels are now 52% higher than pre-industrial levels (423.9 ppm in 2024), driving stronger greenhouse effects and rapid climate shifts.
• Long-Term Impact: CO₂ has an exceptionally long atmospheric lifespan, meaning every molecule emitted has lasting global effects.
• Other Greenhouse Gases: 
• • Methane (CH₄): Increased by 16% over pre-industrial levels; ~60% arises from livestock, rice cultivation, fossil fuel extraction, and waste management.
  • Nitrous Oxide (N₂O): Increased by 25%, mainly due to fertiliser use, biomass burning, and industry.

Causes of Rising CO₂ Concentration

• Fossil Fuel Combustion: The burning of coal, oil, and gas remains the primary driver of rising CO₂ levels.
• Increased Wildfires: Particularly in South America, wildfires released large quantities of carbon, compounding the rise.
• Weakened Carbon sinks: Warmer global temperatures and changing land-use patterns are reducing the planet’s natural capacity to absorb CO₂.

Check Out UPSC CSE Books

Visit PW Store

DOWNLOAD PDF