WMO Greenhouse Gas Bulletin 2026

Why in News?

Recently, the World Meteorological Organization (WMO) published those atmospheric concentrations of the 3 primary long-lived greenhouse gases Carbon Dioxide (CO2), Methane (CH4), and Nitrous Oxide (N2O) reached unprecedented record highs in 2025.

• Released ahead of - The UN Climate Conference (COP31 in Antalya, Turkiye).
• The report warns that long atmospheric lifetimes commit the planet to multi-decadal temperature increases and heightened extreme weather risks.

Key Benchmarks (2025 Data)

Emerging Dynamics

• Role of Land Sinks
  • Approximately 50% of annual CO2emissions remain trapped in the atmosphere, while the rest is absorbed by terrestrial ecosystems (forests, soil) and oceans.
  • The annual CO2growth rate in 2024–2025 (+2.8 ppm) showed slight moderation compared to the 2023–2024 spike, reflecting partial recovery of land carbon sinks following the end of the severe 2023/2024 El Niño cycle.
• Emerging Atmospheric Threats 
  • Sulphur Hexafluoride (SF6) - Used extensively as an insulating gas in electrical switchgear and grid distribution.
  • It possesses a Global Warming Potential (GWP) 24,300 times greater than CO2over a 100-year timescale, with emissions steadily rising over the past three decades.
  • Molecular Hydrogen (H2) - Rapid expansion in green hydrogen production presents potential leakage risks.
  • Uncontrolled H2leakage extends the atmospheric lifetime of methane by competing for hydroxyl (OH) radicals, indirectly intensifying warming.

Reference

Down to earth | Greenhouse gases hit record highs in 2025