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CO2 Emmisions

Rising CO₂ Levels: The Impact of Exceeding 350 ppm on Our Climate

Carbon dioxide (CO₂) is a naturally occurring greenhouse gas that is a key component of Earth's atmosphere. It is produced through various natural processes, including respiration, volcanic eruptions, and the decomposition of organic matter. However, human activities, such as the burning of fossil fuels, deforestation, and industrial processes, have significantly increased CO₂ levels in the atmosphere. This increase contributes to the greenhouse effect, trapping heat and leading to global climate change. Monitoring CO₂ levels is crucial for understanding the impact of these activities on the environment and for developing strategies to mitigate climate change.

This chart presents the average annual CO2 levels measured over the past decade, spanning from 2014 to 2024. It illustrates a consistent upward trend in CO2 concentration each year, highlighting the ongoing increase in atmospheric carbon dioxide levels. Starting from an average of 399 ppm (parts per million) in 2014, the CO2 concentration has steadily climbed, reaching an average of 425 ppm in 2024. Each bar represents the yearly average, with the data points showcasing a gradual rise in CO2 levels over time.

Source:Global Monitoring Laboratory / Mauna Loa CO2 records - https://gml.noaa.gov/ccgg/trends/data.html

Dr. Xin Lan, NOAA/GML (gml.noaa.gov/ccgg/trends/) and Dr. Ralph Keeling, Scripps Institution of Oceanography (scrippsco2.ucsd.edu/).

Tools: MySQL, Power BI

This chart displays the average CO2 levels over a span of 60 years, from 1964 to 2024 (September). The trend clearly shows a steady increase in atmospheric CO2 concentration over the decades. Beginning at 320 ppm (parts per million) in 1964, the levels have gradually risen, reaching 425 ppm by 2024. Key milestones include reaching 343 ppm in the early 1980s, 367 ppm around 2000, and surpassing 400 ppm in the 2010s. This long-term data emphasizes the persistent upward trajectory of CO2 levels over the past six decades, reflecting the ongoing changes in global carbon dioxide concentration.

This chart illustrates the monthly average CO2 levels for the year 2023. The values remain relatively stable throughout the year, ranging between 419 ppm and 424 ppm. January starts with an average of 419 ppm, peaking at 424 ppm during May and June, before slightly declining to 419 ppm again in September. The end of the year sees a slight rise, reaching 422 ppm in December. The consistent monthly averages indicate that while there are minor fluctuations, CO2 levels maintained a high concentration throughout the year, reflecting ongoing carbon emissions.

This chart compares the monthly average CO2 levels for 2023 and 2024. Each pair of bars represents the average CO2 concentration for a specific month, with 2023 in light blue and 2024 in dark blue. The data shows a slight increase in CO2 levels from 2023 to 2024, with 2024 values consistently higher each month. For instance, January's CO2 average increased from 419 ppm in 2023 to 423 ppm in 2024, while April saw an increase from 423 ppm to 427 ppm. This pattern continues throughout the year, reflecting a gradual rise in atmospheric CO2 concentrations between these two years.

CO₂ levels above 350 parts per million (ppm) are a cause for concern because they exceed the threshold considered safe for maintaining a stable climate. At concentrations above this level, the greenhouse effect intensifies, leading to global warming, rising sea levels, and more frequent extreme weather events. The increase in CO₂ accelerates the melting of polar ice, disrupts ecosystems, and poses risks to biodiversity and agriculture. Scientists and climate experts warn that sustained CO₂ levels above 350 ppm could lead to irreversible changes in our climate system, making it crucial to reduce emissions and transition to sustainable energy sources.