The Earth Continues to Get 'Warmer'

Research by scientists indicates that even if carbon dioxide production were to stop today, the Earth's temperature would still be 1.6 degrees Celsius higher than pre-industrial levels. According to an assessment by the World Meteorological Organization, greenhouse gas emissions have increased by 25% over the past 25 years, representing a 43% increase compared to pre-industrial times. As reported by 'New Scientist' citing the World Meteorological Organization, earlier this year, the amount of carbon dioxide in the Earth's atmosphere surpassed 400 parts per million (ppm) for the first time. 'PPM' stands for parts per million, a method for determining the concentration of substances. Meanwhile, the growth of other pollutants such as methane and nitrous oxide has also been unprecedented over the past decade, with concentrations reaching 1833 and 327 ppm, respectively. The UK Meteorological Office has confirmed the 'New Scientist' report, which states that the Earth is 1 degree warmer than pre-industrial times. Weather models indicate that even if carbon dioxide levels were to stop increasing, the Earth's temperature would still rise by 0.6 degrees Celsius. According to the latest findings, if pollutant levels were to be immediately reduced by 60%, the Earth's temperature would still increase by 1.6 degrees Celsius. Even if countries adhere to their commitments under the global climate treaty, carbon dioxide levels will continue to rise until 2030 and beyond. Therefore, it seems that the increase in temperature will not be limited to 2 degrees Celsius. Carbon dioxide levels vary from place to place and across seasons, depending on its absorption by plants during growth and its release during decay. Carbon dioxide levels exceeding 400 ppm were first reported in some regions in 2012. In 2013, the Mauna Loa Observatory in Hawaii, which has monitored carbon dioxide levels since 1956, recorded carbon dioxide levels exceeding 400 ppm for the first time. Currently, the global average carbon dioxide level has surpassed 400 ppm. However, this increase is temporary as the global average fluctuates throughout the year. This year, it will decrease again, but next year it will rise even more and soon remain permanently above 400 ppm. Last year, the global annual average was 398 ppm. Due to the spikes in carbon dioxide levels during years when the El Niño phenomenon occurs – due to events like fires in Indonesia – the levels may exceed 400 ppm this year. In another report published in the 'Daily Mail', researchers predicted the future of several major cities worldwide in 100 years if no action is taken to stop carbon dioxide emissions into the atmosphere. According to this research, by 2100, sea levels will rise by 38 feet. Additionally, 1800 cities, including London, Sydney, and New York, will be affected unless fossil fuel consumption is rapidly reduced.