Disturbing Record: Energy-Driven Carbon Pollution Peaks in 2023
Global carbon pollution from energy sources reached an unprecedented high last year, hitting a record of 37.4 billion metric tons, as disclosed by an International Energy Agency (IEA) report. This surge is attributed partially to heightened fossil fuel usage in regions grappling with droughts that restricted hydropower production.
Urgent Action Required: Steep Emission Cuts Essential for Climate Goals
Scientists emphasize the necessity for substantial cuts in carbon emissions, predominantly from fossil fuel combustion, to meet global climate goals outlined in the Paris Agreement. Contrary to the required rapid decline, CO2 emissions marked a new record high, escalating by 410 million metric tons, or 1.1%, in 2023.
Clean Tech Impact: Challenges Amidst a Global Clean Energy Expansion
The worldwide adoption of clean technologies, including wind, solar, and electric vehicles, contributed to slowing the growth rate of emissions, which was 1.3% in 2022. However, factors such as China’s economic reopening, increased fossil fuel utilization in regions with limited hydropower, and an aviation sector recovery collectively led to an overall rise in carbon emissions.
Driven by Droughts: Hydropower Losses Contribute Significantly
Approximately 40% of the emissions surge, equivalent to 170 million tonnes of CO2, can be attributed to efforts to compensate for lost hydropower generation during extreme droughts. The IEA underscores that without this effect, global electricity sector emissions would have seen a decline in 2023.
In the United States, energy-related emissions witnessed a 4.1% reduction, primarily driven by significant declines in the electricity sector. Meanwhile, the European Union experienced an almost 9% drop in energy-related emissions, propelled by a remarkable surge in renewable power generation and a substantial decline in both coal and gas power generation. As the global community grapples with these alarming trends, urgent and comprehensive measures are imperative to curb carbon pollution and mitigate the escalating threats of climate change.
Source：thisdaylive.com
