The year 2024 has been declared the warmest year on record globally, surpassing the critical 1.5°C threshold above pre-industrial levels. While India also recorded its warmest year, the extent of warming was relatively lower compared to the global average.
Factors Behind 2024’s Record Warmth
- Greenhouse Gas Emissions: Elevated CO₂ and methane emissions intensified global warming.
- El Niño Phenomenon: Amplified ocean temperatures, raising global averages.
- Volcanic Eruption Aftereffects: The 2022 Tonga eruption altered atmospheric patterns, contributing to warming.
- Reduced Aerosol Pollution: Less cloud cover allowed more solar radiation to heat the Earth.
- Arctic Ice Loss: Melting ice reduced albedo, increasing heat absorption.
Challenges in Combating Global Warming
- High Emissions: Persistent reliance on fossil fuels keeps greenhouse gas emissions elevated.
- Economic Dependence: Coal and oil dominate energy sources in many nations.
- Global Inequality: Unequal capacities and responsibilities hinder cohesive action.
- Funding Constraints: Developing nations face financial barriers in climate initiatives.
- Climate Denial: Misinformation and resistance delay global consensus and action.
Solutions to Mitigate Global Warming
- Renewable Energy: Transition to solar, wind, and hydropower to reduce carbon footprints.
- Afforestation: Large-scale tree planting to sequester carbon and restore ecosystems.
- Stronger Climate Policies: Enforce international agreements like the Paris Accord for emissions reduction.
- Green Technology: Invest in carbon capture and sustainable technologies.
- Awareness Campaigns: Educate and mobilize communities to support climate action and policies.
