Research – analysis: prof. Giannis Maniatis
With the assistance of PhD students: I. Voulgari, A. Manolis, M. Hatzigeorgiadis
In 2022, for the first time in the last 800,000 years of Earth’s history, the concentration of carbon dioxide (CO2) in the atmosphere reached a record level of 417.65 parts per million. Even if we achieve stabilization of CO2 emissions, this will not immediately change its concentration in the atmosphere, since the amounts already present can remain in the atmosphere for five to hundreds of years.
The planet is overheating
Current national climate policies will result in global warming of 2.7°C by 2100, according to new estimates from Climate Action Tracker. If national commitments for 2030 are met, the average global temperature rise will be 2.4°C (2100). Even in the best case, +1.8°C is predicted (with low and high estimates of +1.5°C to +2.4°C respectively).
32% of gaseous pollutants come from China
From a very unpleasant 2021, despite COP26… China is responsible for the annual emissions of 32% of the planet’s gaseous pollutants. The increase in electricity production from coal-fired power plants continues: from 4,000 TWh (2012) to 5,000 TWh (2021), an increase of 25%. The second (currently) most populous country, India, is on the rise. The US is among the countries that are on the path of minor cutbacks. 
Energy consumption is growing
China and India are increasing their energy consumption (from 100+26 exajoules to 114+38 exajoules) according to the International Energy Agency’s current policies until 2030. There will be a slight increase in the US (from 61 exajoules to 65 exajoules), while in the EU. slight decrease (from 41 exajoules to 40 exajoules). Only China in 2030 will consume more energy than the US and the EU. together!
Young people in the south are worried about the climate
Of the 10,000 16-25 year olds surveyed in 10 countries, 70% said they were extremely or very concerned about climate change. This percentage is higher in the developing countries of the Global South, which will experience the most devastating impacts. Young people are most concerned in the Philippines (84%), India (68%) and Brazil (67%). In the US and UK, youth concern is less than 50%.
The tragic irony of Africa
Although Africa accounts for only 4% of global greenhouse gas emissions, it is at the forefront of the effects of global warming. The irony is that at the same time, Africa has a huge potential for renewable energy. Harnessing these sustainable resources and restoring ecosystems will help African countries meet the climate challenges of the century.
Anna White is a journalist at 247 News Reel, where she writes on world news and current events. She is known for her insightful analysis and compelling storytelling. Anna’s articles have been widely read and shared, earning her a reputation as a talented and respected journalist. She delivers in-depth and accurate understanding of the world’s most pressing issues.