Global CO2 Emissions Reach Record High in 2025, Shattering Climate Goals

According to a new report, global carbon dioxide (CO2) emissions from burning fossil fuels are projected to reach a record high of 38.1 billion tonnes by the end of 2025. This represents a 1.1% increase from the previous year, continuing the relentless rise in emissions that is pushing the world further away from its climate goals.

The report, produced by an international team of over 130 scientists, reveals some positive signs of progress, with 35 countries successfully reducing their emissions while growing their economies. However, the overall growth in global energy demand is still driving increased fossil fuel use, particularly in major emitters like the US, India, and China.

Lead author Professor Pierre Friedlingstein warns that the continued rise in emissions means the 1.5°C temperature threshold set by the Paris Agreement is no longer plausible. "With CO2 emissions still increasing, keeping global warming below 1.5°C is no longer plausible," he said. "There's a clear signal from Planet Earth that we need to dramatically reduce emissions."

The report highlights the urgent need for countries to accelerate their efforts to transition to clean, renewable energy sources and implement more effective policies to curb fossil fuel consumption. As the world grapples with the escalating impacts of climate change, the race to reduce global emissions has never been more critical.