Carbon dioxide emissions from fossil fuels have accelerated globally at a far greater rate than expected over recent years. The average growth rate of carbon dioxide emissions increased from 1.1% a year in the 1990's to a 3% increase per year in the 2000's.

While politicians fumble over the issue of gaining effective control of carbon dioxide, there is growing evidence that we must keep CO2 levels below 450 ppm or be prepared to suffer serious consequences to life on Earth.