The World Meteorological Organization (WMO) released the State of Climate 2024 report on March 19, 2025. This report marks alarming trends in greenhouse gas emissions and global temperatures. Carbon dioxide (CO2) levels reached 420 parts per million in 2023, marking the highest concentration in 800,000 years. Other greenhouse gases, such as methane (CH4) and nitrous oxide (N2O), also reached unprecedented levels. These changes have led to record-breaking temperatures and intensified natural climate variations like El Niño.
Greenhouse Gas Emissions
The report indicates that CO2, CH4, and N2O are at their highest levels in history. The rise in these gases is primarily due to human activities, including fossil fuel combustion and deforestation. The increase in greenhouse gases contributes to the greenhouse effect, trapping heat in the atmosphere and leading to global warming.
Temperature Records
In 2024, the global mean near-surface temperature was 1.55°C above the pre-industrial average. This marked the first time annual temperatures exceeded the 1.5°C threshold set by the Paris Agreement. The long-term warming trend is estimated to be between 1.34°C and 1.41°C compared to 1850-1900 averages. The WMO used various datasets to confirm these findings, acknowledging uncertainties in temperature statistics.
Ocean Heat and Sea Levels
The last eight years have seen record high ocean heat content, with 90% of trapped heat absorbed by the oceans. Sea levels are rising at an accelerated rate, doubling since satellite measurements began. This rise is attributed to melting glaciers and polar ice. The WMO reports that Antarctic sea ice reached its second-lowest extent ever recorded.
Impact on Weather Patterns
Extreme weather events have intensified due to climate change. The report indicates that 2024 experienced the highest number of displacements since 2008, caused by tropical cyclones, floods, and droughts. The warming oceans contribute to the severity of these events, resulting in devastating impacts on communities worldwide.
Future Projections
Recent studies suggest that if current trends continue, the world may cross the long-term 1.5°C threshold by September 2029. This projection puts stress on the urgency of addressing climate change. The WMO calls for immediate action to mitigate the effects of global warming and reduce greenhouse gas emissions.
Research and Monitoring
Ongoing research is critical to understanding climate dynamics. The WMO emphasises the need for improved monitoring of ocean temperatures and ice melt. About these factors is essential for predicting future climate scenarios and formulating effective policies.
Global Response
The findings of the WMO report serve as a wake-up call for global leaders. Immediate and coordinated action is necessary to combat climate change. Policies aimed at reducing emissions and enhancing sustainability are crucial for protecting the planet and its inhabitants.
Questions for UPSC:
- Critically analyse the impact of rising sea levels on coastal communities globally.
- Estimate the potential consequences of exceeding the 1.5°C threshold on global ecosystems.
- Point out the relationship between greenhouse gas emissions and extreme weather events.
- What are the primary sources of methane emissions? Discuss their implications for climate change.
Answer Hints:
1. Critically analyse the impact of rising sea levels on coastal communities globally.
- Rising sea levels threaten coastal infrastructure, leading to increased flooding and erosion.
- Communities may face displacement, resulting in loss of homes and cultural heritage.
- Economic impacts include damage to property, decreased tourism, and loss of livelihoods.
- Saltwater intrusion affects freshwater supplies, impacting agriculture and drinking water access.
- Vulnerable populations, particularly in developing countries, face heightened risks and limited resources for adaptation.
2. Estimate the potential consequences of exceeding the 1.5°C threshold on global ecosystems.
- Coral reefs may experience widespread bleaching, leading to loss of biodiversity and fisheries.
- Increased temperatures can disrupt species migration patterns and lead to habitat loss.
- Terrestrial and marine ecosystems could face altered food chains and extinction of vulnerable species.
- Changes in precipitation patterns can lead to droughts or floods, affecting ecosystem stability.
- Overall, exceeding this threshold could result in irreversible changes to ecosystems and their services.
3. Point out the relationship between greenhouse gas emissions and extreme weather events.
- Increased greenhouse gas emissions trap more heat, leading to higher global temperatures.
- Warmer temperatures intensify weather patterns, resulting in more severe storms and droughts.
- Changes in atmospheric conditions contribute to increased frequency and intensity of extreme weather events.
- Climate change exacerbates existing vulnerabilities, making communities more susceptible to disasters.
- The correlation between emissions and extreme weather events puts stress on the urgency for emission reductions.
4. What are the primary sources of methane emissions? Discuss their implications for climate change.
- Major sources include agriculture (especially livestock), landfills, and fossil fuel extraction.
- Methane is more potent than CO2 in trapping heat, amplifying global warming effects.
- Reducing methane emissions can have immediate benefits for slowing climate change.
- Management practices in agriculture and waste can mitigate methane release effectively.
- Addressing methane emissions is crucial for achieving climate goals and improving air quality.
