Greenhouse gases rising at record levels, UN says | BBC News

Summary

New UN data reveals that greenhouse gas concentrations are increasing at an unprecedented rate, with CO2 levels rising in 2023 alongside factors like wildfires and the El Niño event. These gases, including carbon dioxide, methane, and nitrous oxide, are key drivers of global warming, and the report shows concentrations have reached levels not seen in 3-5 million years. Despite global climate goals, countries are falling short of reducing emissions, with few significant changes since COP26. The UN urges immediate and radical action to meet carbon reduction targets and tackle climate change more effectively.

Takeaways

• 😀 Greenhouse gas concentrations are rising faster than ever before, with an 11% increase in the past two decades.
• 🌍 The concentration of CO2 increased in 2023, exacerbated by wildfires and the onset of the El Niño weather event.
• 🔥 Wildfires are significantly contributing to greenhouse gas emissions, as seen in places like Greece and Canada.
• 🌳 Trees and seas naturally absorb carbon, but recent evidence suggests that warming may limit their ability to do so.
• ⏳ The last time greenhouse gas levels were similar to today was 3 to 5 million years ago when global temperatures were 2-3°C higher.
• 🔬 Some parts of the Amazon rainforest may no longer be able to absorb carbon, which could have significant long-term effects.
• 🛢️ Despite the focus on climate plans, governments are not meeting their targets for reducing carbon emissions.
• 📊 The UN's recent report indicates that global efforts are falling short, and there has been little progress since COP26 in Glasgow.
• ⏰ New climate plans are expected by next spring, and significant steps are needed to meet the global emissions reduction targets.
• 🔋 Significant commitments have been made to transition away from fossil fuels and increase renewable energy, but there has been little action so far.

Q & A

What is the key finding of the UN report regarding greenhouse gases?

The UN report reveals that concentrations of greenhouse gases in the atmosphere are increasing at the fastest rate in human history, with levels rising by 11% over the past two decades.

What are the main greenhouse gases discussed in the report?

The three key greenhouse gases discussed are carbon dioxide (CO2), methane (CH4), and nitrous oxide (N2O).

How long do greenhouse gases typically remain in the atmosphere?

Greenhouse gases can remain in the atmosphere for decades or even centuries, contributing significantly to global warming.

When were similar levels of greenhouse gas concentrations last seen?

These levels of greenhouse gas concentrations were last seen 3 to 5 million years ago, when global temperatures were 2 to 3 degrees Celsius higher than today.

What is the effect of trees on CO2 concentrations in the atmosphere?

Trees naturally soak up a significant amount of CO2, helping to mitigate climate change. However, the report suggests that as the world warms, trees are becoming less effective in absorbing CO2.

What additional factors are contributing to the increase in greenhouse gases in 2023?

In 2023, the increase in greenhouse gases was influenced by wildfires and the onset of the El Niño weather event, both of which exacerbate fossil fuel emissions and hinder natural CO2 absorption by trees.

What role do forests and seas play in carbon absorption?

Forests and seas are crucial allies in the fight against climate change, as they absorb approximately half of the carbon dioxide produced by human activities.

Why are climate targets from governments not being met according to the UN?

According to the UN, most governments are not meeting their climate targets, as there has been little progress since the COP26 conference in Glasgow. The plans presented are seen as insufficient to reduce carbon emissions.

What is the current status of government climate plans?

Government climate plans are currently off track, with countries expected to update their plans by next spring. These plans have yet to show significant reductions in carbon output, as scientists say emissions need to be cut in half by 2030.

What commitments were made at recent climate conferences to address climate change?

At recent climate conferences, there were commitments to transition away from fossil fuels and to triple renewable energy production by the end of this decade. However, the effectiveness of these commitments depends on actual implementation.