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Atmospheric greenhouse gas concentrations (CSI 013) - Assessment published Nov 2010: The global average concentrations of various greenhouse gasses in the atmosphere reached their highest levels ever recorded, and continue increasing. The combustion of fossil fuels from human activities and land-use changes are largely responsible for this increase. The concentration in 2008 of the six greenhouse gases (GHG) included in the Kyoto Protocol has reached 438 ppm CO 2 equivalent, which is an increase of 160 ppm compared to the pre-industrial level. Considering all GHGs (incl. ozone and various cooling aerosols), the concentration has reached a value of 399 ppm CO 2 equivalents in 2008, which is 121 ppm higher than in pre-industrial times. The concentration of CO 2 -the most important greenhouse gas- has reached in 2008 a level of 385 ppm, and in 2009 387 ppm. This is an increase of nearly 110 ppm compared to the pre-industrial level. Without climate policy, the overall concentration of the six Kyoto gasses is projected to increase up to 638-1360 ppm CO 2 -equivalent by 2100, whereas the concentration of all GHGs may increase up to 608-1535 ppm CO 2 -equivalent. The global atmospheric GHG concentration of 450 ppm CO 2 -equivalent could already become exceeded up 2015 (depending on climate policy and definitions)
Located in Data and maps › Indicators › Atmospheric greenhouse gas concentrations
Tracking progress towards Kyoto and 2020 targets in Europe: This report presents an overview of the progress achieved so far by the EU, its Member States and other EEA member countries towards their respective targets under the Kyoto Protocol and the EU burden-sharing agreement. The assessment is based on greenhouse gas emission data in Europe for 2008, the first year of the Kyoto Protocol's first commitment period which runs from 2008 to 2012. The recent availability of 2009 emissions estimates for the EU and a limited number of countries broadens, in these cases, the basis of the assessment to two years of the five-year commitment period.
Located in Publications
Measured and projected concentration of all greenhouse gases (left) and Kyoto greenhouse gases (right): Graphs show observed and projected green house gases. Projections are made using all main IPCC SRES scenarios
Located in Data and maps › Maps and graphs
Is Europe's transport getting greener? Partly: While technological advances produce cleaner vehicles, more and more passengers and goods are travelling further distances, thereby offsetting efficiency gains. Based on analysis of long-term trends, a new European Environment Agency (EEA) report calls for a clear vision defining Europe's transport system by 2050 and consistent policies to achieve it.
Located in Press room › News
Climate change — time to act: Climate change is a real and current threat. To avoid major irreversible impacts on society and ecosystems, we must act now.
Located in Multimedia centre
EEA: Current EU measures insufficient to prevent further increase of CO2 emissions after the year 2000: Located in Press room › News