In 2018, global greenhouse gas (GHG) emissions reached a new record, even exceeding the average over the past decade, the World Meteorological Organization (WMO) said.

Concentration of CO2 in the atmosphere reached 407.8 parts per million (ppm), 147% higher than the pre-industrial level in 1750.

“It is worth recalling that the last time the Earth experienced a comparable concentration of CO2 was 3-5 million years ago. Back then, the temperature was 2-3°C warmer, sea level was 10-20 meters higher than now,” said Petteri Taalas (pictured), WMO’s Secretary-General.  

While calls have increased in recent years for a reduction in emissions due to the looming chaos (rising temperatures, growing number of extreme weather catastrophes), much remains to be done. “There is no sign of a slowdown, let alone a decline, in greenhouse gases concentration in the atmosphere despite all the commitments under the Paris Agreement on Climate Change,” Mr. Taalas regretted.

Let’s recall the 25th UN Climate Conference (COP 25) is taking place from December 2 to 13 in Madrid, Spain.