New Data Shows Record CO2 Levels in 2024. Are Carbon Sinks Failing?

The Guardian reports that atmospheric carbon dioxide "soared by a record amount in 2024 to hit another high, UN data shows." But what's more troubling is why:Several factors contributed to the leap in CO2, including another year of unrelenting fossil fuel burning despite a pledge by the world's countries in 2023 to "transition away" from coal, oil and gas. Another factor was an upsurge in wildfires in conditions made hotter and drier by global heating. Wildfire emissions in the Americas reached historic levels in 2024, which was the hottest year yet recorded. However, scientists are concerned about a third factor: the possibility that the planet's carbon sinks are beginning to fail. About half of all CO2 emissions every year are taken back out of the atmosphere by being dissolved in the ocean or being sucked up by growing trees and plants. But the oceans are getting hotter and can therefore absorb less CO2 while on land hotter and drier conditions and more wildfires mean less plant growth... Atmospheric concentrations of methane and nitrous oxide - the second and third most important greenhouse gases related to human activities - also rose to record levels in 2024. About 40% of methane emissions come from natural sources. But scientists are concerned that global heating is leading to more methane production in wetlands, another potential feedback loop. Thanks to long-time Slashdot reader mspohr for sharing the article.

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