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Amid Earth’s heat records, scientists report another bump upward in annual carbon emissions

Summary

Global carbon dioxide emissions from fossil fuels are projected to rise by 0.8% in 2024, reaching 41.2 billion tons, according to the Global Carbon Project. This increase exacerbates the challenge of meeting the 2015 Paris Agreement's goal of limiting global warming to 1.5°C above pre-industrial levels, with scientists warning that the threshold could be surpassed within six years. Emissions from China and India grew slightly, while the U.S. and EU saw modest declines. Total emissions from fossil fuels and land use changes are flat due to reduced deforestation rates, offering a rare positive note. Climate experts stress urgent action to curb emissions amid fossil fuel industry resistance and slow international progress. Policymakers face pressure to adopt innovative solutions as emissions have doubled since 1974, intensifying the climate crisis.

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