Record High CO2 Emissions Threaten 1.5C Climate Target

Global CO2 emissions are set to reach 41.6 billion metric tons in 2024, marking a record high and threatening climate goals. While some nations cut emissions, others, particularly emerging economies, increased them. The report highlights the uneven progress in transitioning from fossil fuels to renewable energy.

Global carbon dioxide emissions are on track to hit a record high of 41.6 billion metric tons in 2024, according to the Global Carbon Budget report revealed at the U.N.'s COP29 climate summit in Azerbaijan. This increase pushes the planet further from the 1.5C warming limit set under the Paris Agreement.

Fossil fuels remain the largest contributor, with fossil fuel emissions expected to be 37.4 billion tons in 2024. Despite some nations, particularly in the West, making strides in renewable energy, emissions from industrializing countries like India continue to rise, largely due to power demand.

The report highlights regional disparities in emission trends, with accusations of hypocrisy among nations. Meanwhile, emissions from aviation and shipping are projected to surge by 7.8%, mainly due to the recovery of air travel post-pandemic.

(With inputs from agencies.)