Here is a summary of greenhouse gas concentrations in parts per million (ppm) for 2019 and available 2024 estimates, focusing on the primary greenhouse gases tracked by atmospheric monitoring:
1. Carbon Dioxide (CO₂
2019: ~410 ppm
2024 (estimated): ~420-425 ppm
CO₂ levels have continued to increase annually, despite some reduction efforts, primarily due to fossil fuel use and deforestation.
2. Methane (CH₄
2019: ~1.87 ppm (or 1,870 ppb, as methane is often reported in parts per billion)
2024 (estimated): ~2.00 ppm (or 2,000 ppb)
Methane levels have seen notable increases, driven by agriculture, waste management, and fossil fuel production, though initiatives to cap methane leaks have begun to emerge.
3. Nitrous Oxide (N₂O)
2019: ~0.33 ppm (330 ppb)
2024 (estimated): ~0.34-0.35 ppm (340-350 ppb)
N₂O emissions continue to rise slowly, with agriculture (fertilizers) as the primary source.
4. Fluorinated Gases (HFCs, PFCs, SF₆, NF₃
Concentrations are much lower than CO₂, CH₄, and N₂O, measured in parts per trillion (ppt) rather than ppm.
Emissions for these gases vary widely, with individual gas concentrations often around 1-10 ppt for commonly used HFCs and PFCs.
Overall, CO₂ remains the dominant greenhouse gas, with steady rises in methane and nitrous oxide levels. Fluorinated gases, though present in much lower concentrations, contribute significantly due to their high global warming potential.
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