The global sea level rise in the past year was higher than expected, with NASA reporting a 0.59 cm per year increase instead of the predicted 0.43 cm. The main cause is thermal expansion, where the ocean absorbs excess heat due to greenhouse gas emissions, along with glacier melt contributing to the issue.
2024 was the hottest year on record, with extreme temperatures and climate patterns reinforcing the urgency of global climate policies. While some nations struggle to coordinate climate action, others, like China, are expanding their leadership in clean energy development. However, international efforts remain fragmented, with political shifts—such as the U.S. withdrawing from key climate agreements—slowing progress. Despite setbacks, there is still hope that global leaders will push forward with clean energy initiatives.
Vocabulary:
• thermal expansion (noun): The increase in volume of water as it heats up.
• greenhouse gases (noun): Gases like CO? that trap heat in the Earth's atmosphere.
• absorb (verb): To take in or soak up something, like heat or water.
• concentration (noun): The amount of a substance in a particular space.
• facilitate (verb): To make a process easier or more efficient.
• transition (noun): The process of changing from one state or condition to another.
• collaboration (noun): Working together toward a common goal.
• deregulation (noun): The removal of laws and restrictions in an industry.
• precarious (adj.): Uncertain, unstable, or risky.
• authority (noun): An organization or person with official power or expertise.
• policy (noun): A plan or course of action, often created by governments.
• underpin (verb): To support or form the basis of something.
• fray (noun): A situation of intense activity, competition, or conflict.
Source: BBC News