Scientists and activists expressed shock and the need for urgent climate action Wednesday as the United Nations’ World Meteorological Organization revealed that atmospheric levels of the three main greenhouse gases fueling catastrophic global heating all hit record highs in 2021.
The WMO’s annual Greenhouse Gas Bulletin warns that atmospheric carbon dioxide, methane, and nitrous oxide reached unprecedented levels last year. According to the report, carbon dioxide concentrations in 2021 were 415.7 parts per million (ppm), methane was 1908 parts per billion (ppb), and nitrous oxide was 334.5 ppb. These levels are, respectively, 149%, 262%, and 124% above pre-industrial levels.
The report notes that methane concentrations saw their biggest single-year increase since systematic measurements began nearly 40 years ago, while CO2 levels rose at a higher-than-usual rate.
“The brutal truth is here for everyone to see,” climate scientist Bill McGuire tweeted in response to the new figures. “Far from emissions being brought under control, they are actually accelerating. This is the worst possible news.”
“You can say goodbye to 1.5°C and 2°C too,” he added, referring […]
We need more wind farms and solar farms to produce our energy. We can then do away with the polluting forms of energy production. We do need energy! Our grocery stores where I live already have special spaces right up front where people can replenish their electric cars. The trouble is: they took away parking spaces for disabled people like me and I do not like that!