Atmospheric carbon dioxide levels surged at an unprecedented rate in 2024, with satellite data revealing the Amazon rainforest’s declining capacity to absorb emissions. The satellite that detected this critical trend now faces potential decommissioning despite remaining operational until 2040.
Unprecedented Carbon Dioxide Acceleration
Atmospheric carbon dioxide concentrations rose faster in 2024 than in any year since systematic measurements began in the late 1950s, according to new satellite analysis. The record-breaking increase of 3.73 parts per million represents a significant acceleration from previous years, with analysts suggesting this indicates a potentially troubling shift in the global carbon cycle.