Global average carbon dioxide (CO2) levels surpassed 430 parts per million (ppm) in May, a record high exceeding last year's levels by more than 3 ppm. This unprecedented level hasn't been seen in millions of years, indicating insufficient efforts to curb greenhouse gas emissions. Scientists warn that such high CO2 concentrations, primarily from burning fossil fuels, accelerate global warming, causing rising sea levels, melting ice, and intensified extreme weather. The rapid increase is alarming, as it's changing the planet's climate faster than human society can adapt.

Prepared by Olivia Bennett and reviewed by editorial team.