​Global warning: Report confirms carbon emissions rise

14.11.17 By
This article is more than 6 years old

GLOBAL greenhouse gas pollution is on track to jump by the end of 2017, after a three year flatline, as a result of the ongoing burning of fossil fuels around the world.

The Global Carbon Budget released overnight shows emissions from fossil fuels and industry are on track to rise by 2 per cent this year. The landmark report has been released as world leaders and delegates arrive in Bonn for high level climate talks (COP23) on Thursday (AEST).

International climate scientist and Climate Councillor Professor Will Steffen said the landmark report from the Global Carbon Project serves as a timely warning, as the critical window of opportunity to tackle climate change begins to close.

“This should serve as yet another urgent alarm, highlighting the importance for every country to do their part to cut carbon pollution levels – and Australia is no exception,” he said.

The report outlines China’s economic boom has played a significant factor in the resumption of growing greenhouse pollution levels, with the nation expecting a 3.5% increase as a result of the burning of coal, oil and gas, combined with a decline in the use of hydropower, following a drought period.

“However, there are positives to note, with carbon pollution levels continuing to drop in the US and in Europe.”

“The global increase in the rollout of renewable energy and storage technology has also played a role in the recent global slowdown of pollution levels, with wind and solar generation replacing ageing, inefficient and expensive coal and gas.”

Professor Steffen also pointed to a series of extreme weather records that have been broken over the last decade as a result of worsening climate change, while 2017 is also expected to become the third warmest year on record.

“This data proves that we are now rolling backwards when it comes to tackling climate change at global level. Now, more than ever, as global climate talks are underway, we must keep the pressure up, Australia must step up its game as the Federal Government heads to climate talks in Germany this week.”

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