Record-breaking CO2 emissions due to drought, fires, and fossil fuels.

In 2024, carbon dioxide emissions from burning fossil fuels are expected to surpass previous record levels. This disappointing trend means that efforts to curb these emissions and combat climate change are more crucial than ever. Pierre Friedlingstein from the University of Exeter emphasizes the urgent need to significantly reduce fossil fuel emissions to tackle this global challenge.

The latest Global Carbon Budget report, presented at the COP29 summit in Azerbaijan, highlights that human-caused CO2 emissions are projected to reach a record 41.6 gigatonnes this year, with a notable increase driven by the burning of fossil fuels. The report also reveals a slower growth rate in fossil fuel emissions compared to the previous year but stresses that further reductions are essential.

Additionally, the report identifies factors contributing to the rise in emissions, such as drought-induced wildfires in the tropics and a decline in the carbon land sink, which typically absorbs a significant portion of CO2 emissions. While challenges persist, experts underscore the importance of transitioning to renewable energy to combat climate change effectively.

The report predicts that without significant action, the world will exceed its carbon budget for limiting global warming within the next few decades, highlighting the critical need for accelerated efforts to address this pressing issue.