WMO: Atmospheric CO2 levels reach new high in 2025

Methane as a short-term approach

In the case of fossil fuel emissions, relatively substantial results can be achieved quickly by plugging methane leaks and reducing losses. Tarasova therefore focuses on a measure that, according to the report, addresses existing infrastructure and does not first require new technologies.

The result recorded in the El Niño year of 2025 must be viewed against the backdrop of a potentially accelerated rise in CO2. El Niño is treated as a contributing factor in the sources cited. The report thus describes a connection between the climate phenomenon and changes in atmospheric CO2 concentrations.

The United Nations likewise tracks developments in greenhouse gases as part of its climate policy. The latest WMO assessment makes clear that the scientifically observed increase in CO2 concentrations cannot be reversed through short-term measures alone.

Assessment in the WMO report

In addition to methane, the report also identifies SF6 as a greenhouse gas. Unlike methane, it is considerably more potent in terms of climate impact. The WMO report therefore clearly states that an effective strategy must combine steps achievable in the short term with long-term measures to reduce various greenhouse gases.

According to Tarasova, the most important short-term option for action is methane savings. Fossil fuel emissions can be reduced more rapidly through sealed facilities and fewer leaks. At the same time, the record high in CO2 remains a signal that the overall climate impact of human emissions continues to increase.

The WMO thus classifies the latest measurement results as a warning signal. The record value makes clear how urgent it is to limit greenhouse gas sources and use existing potential for emission reductions. Methane is regarded as a particularly effective approach in the short term.

Implications for climate policy

The extent to which individual measures affect the long-term development of the atmosphere depends on their sustained implementation. Nevertheless, with the record CO2 value and the reference to methane, the WMO report provides a concrete indication of where additional short-term action is needed.