So can we be climate optimists? In 2024, we could see a decline in global carbon emissions for the first time in history.
This could be the year… global CO2 reduces
Hot topic: Scientists think 2023 could go down in history as the peak in our greenhouse gas emissions. Glossary
New year's resolution - A goal you set for yourself at the start of a new year.
Fossil fuels - Fuels made from decomposing plants and animals, including coal, natural gas and oil. These fuels release carbon dioxide, causing global warming.
Emissions - Things that are released, such as gases, as part of a process. E.g. greenhouse gases.
Greenhouse gas - Gases in the Earth's atmosphere that trap heat, contributing to global warming. Carbon dioxide, methane, nitrous oxide and water vapour are all greenhouse gases.
Renewable - Energy sources, such as wind and solar power.
China - A country in East Asia, home to 1.4 billion people.
Carbon dioxide - Carbon dioxide is a colourless gas formed during the combustion of any material containing carbon and is a significant greenhouse gas.
Global warming - The Earth is getting hotter due to climate change.
Optimists - People who have a positive and hopeful outlook.
Climate change - Long-term shifts in temperatures and weather patterns. Human action is a major cause of climate change.