Global carbon emissions hit record high, scientists warn of worsening climate disasters

TAMPA, Fla. - Nearly 10 years ago, most nations signed the Paris Agreement to limit greenhouse gas emissions and slow climate change. But global pledges and follow-through have fallen short. As a result, carbon pollution is accumulating in the atmosphere, trapping heat and driving up temperatures worldwide.

What they're saying:

"Fires will be raging. Droughts will be happening. Tropical storms will be more intense and more frequent," Inger Andersen, executive director of the UN Environment Program, warns.

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According to the World Meteorological Organization, carbon dioxide levels hit a record high in 2024, with the largest single-year increase on record. Data for 2025 will not be available for several months, but environmentalists are not optimistic.

Ten years ago, the Earth had already warmed 1.1°C since the Industrial Revolution, and scientists warned that rising to 1.5°C would trigger more severe impacts. Current UN research indicates that limiting warming to 1.5°C is no longer likely or possible.

Adelle Thomas, climate adaptation chief at the Natural Resources Defense Council, emphasized the stakes.

"Every tenth of a degree counts… ocean heat waves and, you know, the destruction of coral reefs. It matters long-term when we think about sea-level rise."

The Political Context:

In the United States, climate mitigation has not been a priority. The Trump administration phased out clean-energy projects and incentives, rolled back environmental regulations and proposed lowering vehicle efficiency standards in an effort to reduce costs.

Internationally, climate conferences have failed to secure binding fossil-fuel reduction commitments, though some funding has been promised to help nations cope with the growing impacts of climate change.

What's next:

Scientists warn that the planet faces rising seas, extreme weather events and long-term environmental consequences if emissions continue unchecked. While some impacts are now unavoidable, proactive measures and international cooperation can still limit further damage and protect vulnerable communities.