Atmospheric concentrations of carbon dioxide (CO2) and other greenhouse gases once again reached new highs last year, scientists projected in a new report released Monday.
The increase in CO2 was just above the average rise recorded over the last decade, according to an annual report by the World Meteorological Organization, a specialized agency of the United Nations.
From concrete data received from monitoring stations in the Arctic and all over the world, scientists say that globally-averaged concentrations of CO2 reached 407.8 parts per million in 2018, up from 405.5 parts per million (ppm) in 2017.
According to the report, this increase was above the average over the last 10 years and represents 147% of the pre-industrial level in 1750.
Since 1990, there has been a 43% increase in the warming effect on the climate of long-lived greenhouse gases.
The report said the UN Environment Program would report shortly on the gap between the countries� actions on cutting carbon and requirements to keep under the temperature targets agreed in the Paris climate pact.
"This report will help give information to delegates from almost 200 countries who will be gathered in Madrid next week for COP25, the annual round of international climate talks", it stated.
By Elif Selin Calik
Anadolu Agency