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illuminem summarises for you the essential news of the day. Read the full piece on CNN or enjoy below:
🗞️ Driving the news: The Trump administration has been accused of downplaying a significant climate development: the largest recorded annual increase in atmospheric carbon dioxide (CO₂)
• Rather than releasing the data with expert commentary as in previous years, NOAA quietly posted it on social media, omitting analysis or public statements
• This coincides with proposed budget cuts that would eliminate NOAA’s climate research capabilities, including its CO₂ monitoring lab
🔭 The context: NOAA has traditionally issued detailed reports and hosted press briefings on climate metrics such as CO₂ growth, offering context from scientists
• These actions supported transparency and informed policymaking
• The Trump administration’s decision to scale back such communication and disband key labs reflects a broader trend of reducing federal climate initiatives, especially those that might contradict political messaging
🌍 Why it matters for the planet: The reported 3.75 ppm increase in CO₂ concentrations in 2024 — surpassing the previous 2015 record by 25% — underscores a worsening climate trajectory
• Rising CO₂ levels intensify global warming, yet public understanding and political will may erode if scientific findings are suppressed
• At a time when natural carbon sinks may be weakening, curbing emissions and enhancing transparency is critical to maintaining global climate stability
⏭️ What's next: If the proposed shutdown of NOAA’s climate labs proceeds, it could severely hinder the U.S. government's ability to track and respond to atmospheric changes
• The scientific community may rely more heavily on independent and academic sources for critical data
• In the short term, congressional oversight and public pressure could influence the fate of NOAA’s programs and shape upcoming budget negotiations
💬 One quote: “This episode illustrates a broader pattern of suppressing science that conflicts with political agendas,” — NOAA scientist who requested anonymity due to employment concerns
📈 One stat: Atmospheric CO₂ levels reached 422.7 ppm in 2024 — up from 280 ppm at the start of the industrial era and 337 ppm when NOAA began its global measurements in 1979
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