Global CO₂ emissions from the energy sector hit a record high in 2024 for the fourth consecutive year, reaching 40.8 gigatonnes, according to the Energy Institute’s annual review.

Despite a 16% surge in wind and solar energy—nine times faster than total energy demand—fossil fuel use continued to rise. Natural gas saw the largest increase at 2.5%, followed by coal (1.2%) and oil (under 1%). The world’s total energy supply grew by 2%, with all sources—fossil fuels and renewables—seeing gains, a scenario last seen in 2006. Analysts say geopolitical tensions, such as the Ukraine war and Middle East conflicts, have complicated efforts to shift away from fossil fuels. Despite commitments at COP28 to triple renewable capacity by 2030, progress remains uneven. 2024 was also the hottest year on record, with temperatures surpassing 1.5°C above pre-industrial levels, underscoring the urgent need for accelerated global decarbonization efforts.