According to the latest carbon emissions news, the Global Carbon Project has projected that carbon emissions from fossil fuels will hit an all-time high of 37.4 billion metric tons in 2024. The increase is about 0.8% above 2023 levels.
The latest carbon emissions news shows a rise in pollution from all major fossil fuels such as coal, oil and gas. Gas emissions saw the largest annual increase, up by 2.4% with heightened use in nations like China, driven by its surging demand for electricity.
Oil consumption influenced by increased global air travel, rose by 0.9%. Coal emissions slightly increased by 0.2% due to high energy demands in emerging markets.
The latest carbon emissions news reveals China remains the world’s largest carbon emitter, with slight growth in fossil fuel use.
While China achieved growth in renewable energy, its coal power usage also rose largely due to high electricity demands from residential and industrial sectors. The country’s oil emissions may have peaked as electric vehicle adoption continues to grow.
The US and European Union report declines in carbon emissions, as per the latest carbon emissions news. US emissions fell, with coal use dropping to a 120-year low.
However, gas consumption increased. European emissions fell by 3.8% as coal usage declined across the continent.
India’s economy saw a 4.6% rise in emissions, with an increased reliance on coal power.
The Global Carbon Project reports that the world will emit approximately 41.2 billion tons of carbon dioxide in 2024. This figure is a 0.8% increase from 2023 levels.
Although this increase is lower than the 1.4% rise observed in 2023, emissions remain well above sustainable limits.
According to the 2015 Paris Agreement, keeping global warming below 1.5°C above pre-industrial levels is crucial. The Earth is already 1.3°C warmer than it was in the pre-industrial era.
At current emission rates, scientists project that humanity will exceed the 1.5°C threshold within six years.
To maintain a chance of keeping warming under 1.5°C, carbon emissions need to be cut by 42% by 2030.
The latest carbon emissions news shows insufficient progress toward these goals. Climate scientists address the necessity of thinking outside the box to reduce dependency on fossil fuels and pursue alternative energy solutions.
China contributes approximately 32% of global emissions. In 2024, China’s emissions grew by a modest 0.2%, primarily driven by coal.
India, the third-largest emitter saw a 4.6% increase in fossil fuel emissions in 2024. The economic expansion and rising energy needs have fueled this growth.
India contributes around 8% of global carbon pollution, though its per capita emissions remain lower than those of many developed nations.
The US, responsible for 13% of global carbon emissions, reported a 0.6% decrease in 2024. The decline is attributed to reduced use of coal, oil and cement.
The US remains the largest historical contributor, accounting for 21% of global emissions since 1950. Emissions in Europe fell by 3.8% due to reduced coal use and the expansion of renewable energy sources.
Rising global energy demand has sustained fossil fuel use. Solar and wind power are expanding but are not yet sufficient to fully meet the world’s energy needs.
While some regions have successfully reduced fossil fuel reliance, other areas particularly in developing economies are experiencing emissions growth.
Emissions from coal, oil and natural gas burning are the leading contributors, releasing roughly 2.6 million pounds of CO₂ every second.
Increased international travel and shipping have added to carbon pollution levels, though these sectors have not yet returned to pre-2019 levels.
Renewable energy sources like solar and wind are expanding at record rates, however, the global energy demand continues to rise faster than renewable infrastructure can scale.
Despite this growth, the latest carbon emissions news confirms that renewable adoption must accelerate even more to counterbalance fossil fuel dependence.
With emissions hitting record highs, the spotlight is on COP29 as world leaders seek to advance climate action.
According to the latest carbon emissions news, $1 trillion annually is needed to support climate action in developing nations.
COP29 aims to mobilize these funds to reduce emissions and protect vulnerable countries, but financing remains a barrier.
Emissions need to decrease by at least 43% by 2030 to limit global warming to 1.5°C. The latest carbon emissions news stresses that without immediate, drastic cuts, this target may become unattainable, with consequences for global stability.
A positive note in the latest carbon emissions news is that 22 countries have reduced their emissions while maintaining economic growth.
Countries like the UK, Germany and the US are leading by example.
