Greenhouse Gas Emissions Surge, Intensifying Climate Crisis

According to data presented by the environmental organization Climate Trace on the 15th at the 29th UN Climate Change Conference of the Parties (COP29) in Baku, Azerbaijan, Shanghai emitted 256 million tons of greenhouse gases in 2023.

Following Shanghai, Tokyo, Japan emitted 250 million tons, and New York, USA emitted 160 million tons. Houston, USA, and Seoul, South Korea ranked 4th and 5th in the world, with emissions of 150 million tons and 142 million tons, respectively, according to Climate Trace.

Climate change experts are sounding the alarm as rising greenhouse gas emissions contribute to a rapid increase in global temperatures, leading to more frequent and intense extreme weather events. In the summer of 2024, the Northern Hemisphere saw record-breaking heatwaves and powerful storms, causing widespread damage. Additionally, rising sea levels and the mass bleaching of coral reefs are worsening, threatening ecosystems and human livelihoods.

Climate change is having a significant impact on the global economy. Climate scientists warn that global warming, driven by greenhouse gas emissions, is causing more frequent natural disasters, with damages reaching trillions of won each year. In the summer of 2024, the Northern Hemisphere experienced record heatwaves and heavy rainfall, which severely impacted agricultural production, while major cities suffered economic losses due to flooding and extreme weather events.The effects on agriculture and fisheries are particularly severe. Extreme weather fluctuations have led to decreased crop yields and increased damage to crops, resulting in a sharp rise in food prices.

Climate change driven by greenhouse gas emissions also has a significant impact on public health. Extreme weather events, such as heatwaves, exacerbate cardiovascular and respiratory diseases, and high temperatures combined with air pollution pose particular risks to the elderly and children. Additionally, climate change is expanding the habitats of disease-carrying insects, such as mosquitoes, leading to an increase in diseases like malaria, dengue fever, and chikungunya.

Reducing greenhouse gas emissions is not just about protecting the environment but also about ensuring a sustainable future for generations to come. It is a global challenge that requires cooperation among governments, businesses, and individuals. While climate change cannot be reversed overnight, immediate action is necessary to prevent its most devastating consequences. By taking steps today, we can create a more sustainable and resilient world for the future.