The World Meteorological Organization (WMO) reported that greenhouse gas concentrations reached record levels in 2023. Over the last two decades, carbon dioxide (CO2) has increased by 11.4%, which has significant consequences for global warming and planetary temperatures.
According to the WMO's annual report, carbon dioxide levels in 2023 reached 420 parts per million, representing a 151% increase from pre-industrial levels. Furthermore, elevated levels of methane and nitrous oxide were measured, with increases of 265% and 125% respectively, compared to the pre-industrial era.
WMO Secretary-General Celeste Saulo expressed her concern over these figures and emphasized the need for urgent action. She highlighted that wildfires, the transition from La Niña to El Niño, and human activity have contributed to this increase in greenhouse gases.
The report also noted that, despite efforts to reduce emissions, it would take decades to lower current temperature levels due to the persistence of CO2 in the atmosphere. The WMO warned of the possibility of a sharper increase in gas concentrations, which would accelerate global warming.
Concern is focused on the impact of phenomena such as wildfires and ocean warming on CO2 absorption, which could lead to an even greater increase of this gas in the atmosphere. Although some carbon dioxide is absorbed by oceans and terrestrial ecosystems, these capacities could be compromised by climate changes.
In summary, the WMO warns of the severe consequences of rising levels of CO2 and other greenhouse gases, which put the planet on a path of increasing temperatures and significant climate changes.