Earth SciencesEnvironment

Record CO2 Surge in 2024 Signals Weakening Planetary Carbon Absorption

Atmospheric carbon dioxide concentrations surged by a record 3.5 parts per million in 2024, reaching 423.9 ppm according to UN data. Scientists report worrying signs that the planet’s natural carbon absorption systems may be weakening amid ongoing high emissions.

Unprecedented CO2 Increase Recorded

The global average concentration of carbon dioxide surged by a record 3.5 parts per million between 2023 and 2024, reaching 423.9 ppm according to reports from the World Meteorological Organization. This represents the largest annual increase since modern measurements began in 1957 and significantly exceeds the previous year’s increase of 2.3 ppm.