Record global carbon emissions and worsening climate risks

What record global carbon emissions really mean in practice

In 2024, fossil fuel CO₂ emissions reached around 37.4 billion tonnes, the highest level ever recorded. When land-use change such as deforestation is included, total global CO₂ emissions rose to approximately 41.6 billion tonnes.

Atmospheric CO₂ concentrations climbed to 422–423 parts per million, roughly 52% above pre-industrial levels. According to the World Meteorological Organization, the increase between 2023 and 2024 was the largest single-year rise ever observed, driven by continued fossil fuel use, widespread wildfires, and weakening natural carbon sinks.

This matters because higher concentrations of greenhouse gases trap more heat in the Earth system, intensifying long-term warming.

How record global carbon emissions are worsening climate impacts

The years 2023 and 2024 were marked by unprecedented global temperatures, with 2024 assessed as the hottest year in the instrumental record. Higher emissions have amplified the planet’s energy imbalance, accelerating sea-level rise and intensifying extreme weather.

Scientists increasingly link rising greenhouse gas levels to:

• Longer and more intense heatwaves

• Heavier rainfall and flooding

• Prolonged droughts

• More destructive wildfires

• Stronger storms and tropical cyclones

In the United States alone, dozens of major climate and weather disasters occurred in 2024, with significant loss of life and billions in economic damage a pattern mirrored across the globe.

Why record global carbon emissions matter now for UK businesses

Current emissions trajectories are rapidly exhausting the remaining carbon budget for limiting warming to 1.5°C. Some analyses suggest this threshold could be crossed within six years if global trends continue.

For UK businesses, this translates into:

• Rising insurance and operational costs

• Increased supply chain disruption

• Tighter climate regulation and reporting requirements

• Greater scrutiny from customers, investors, and regulators

There is also growing concern around climate tipping points, such as weakening forests and oceans as carbon sinks, which would further accelerate warming and economic instability.

What UK businesses can do about record global carbon emissions

While some regions are beginning to reduce fossil fuel emissions, global progress remains far too slow. Businesses have a critical role to play in closing this gap.

Practical actions include:

• Measuring and reducing operational and supply chain emissions

• Accelerating renewable energy adoption

• Improving energy efficiency across sites and processes

• Addressing high-impact emissions such as methane

• Embedding climate risk into long-term strategy

Support programmes such as our SBS Net-Zero Program, SBS Compliance, and  our SBS Supply Chain Program help organisations move from ambition to action with clarity and confidence.

Final thoughts

Record global carbon emissions are not just a statistic they are a warning signal. The science is clear, the risks are growing, and the window for meaningful action is narrowing.

The good news? Businesses that act now can reduce risk, cut costs, and position themselves as leaders in the transition to a resilient, low-carbon economy. The question is no longer whether to act, but how quickly.

If you’re ready to take the next step, our SBS Academy and SBS Community are here to support you.