In 1958, Charles David Keeling proved for the first time that the CO₂ concentration in the atmosphere is increasing worldwide due to human activities.

Since pre-industrial times, the CO₂ concentration in the atmosphere has increased from 287ppm (parts per million) in 1750 to over 415ppm in 2022. A CO₂ concentration above 400ppm has not been observed on our planet for several million years. The CO₂ concentration has increased from 390ppm to almost 420ppm within 10 years. This steep increase is unprecedented in our Earth’s history.

In the city of St.Gallen, the main sources of CO₂ emissions are private individuals (49%) and companies (41%). In particular, activities related to energy, consumption, food and air travel are responsible for the majority of emissions.

Sources: Buis (2019), IPCC (2013), Monroe (2016), Tans & Bolin (2006), Linsey (2006), Stadt St.Gallen (2020)