World Meteorological Organization, WMO, says global carbon dioxide (CO₂) levels surged by a record 3.5 parts per million (ppm) between 2023 and 2024, reaching a new high of 423.9 ppm.
This was captured in WMO Greenhouse Gas Bulletin which also stated that the increase is the largest since modern measurements began in 1957.
WMO attributed the sharp rise to continued emissions from human activities, widespread wildfires, and weakened carbon absorption by land and ocean “sinks,” which are becoming less effective due to global warming.
The organization warned that the resulting heat trapped in the atmosphere is “turbo-charging the climate” and driving more extreme weather events.
“Reducing emissions is essential not just for our climate but also for our economic security and community well-being,” WMO Deputy Secretary-General Ko Barrett said.
The report also noted record increases in methane and nitrous oxide, the second and third most significant greenhouse gases.
Scientists said 2024 was the warmest year on record, intensified by El Niño, which further reduced CO₂ uptake by forests and oceans.
WMO experts, including Oksana Tarasova, urged for stronger and sustained greenhouse gas monitoring to guide global mitigation efforts.
The bulletin, released ahead of COP30 in Belém, Brazil, underscores the urgent need for enhanced international action to curb emissions and strengthen natural carbon sinks.