Researchers had expected an increase in greenhouse emissions, but the actual amount still surpassed what they predicted.

The surge of coal usage was the main contributor. 2021 was the first year since 2014 that coal generation increased, rather than decreased. The reason for this is because the price of natural gas has gone up.

President Joe Biden’s goal for climate change was to cut emissions from 2005 levels in half by 2030, but for that to be achieved, changes to policy likely need to occur. For example, if Congress passed Biden’s Build Back Better Act, it’s estimated that the US could reduce emissions by 43% when 2030 arrives.

“I never really thought about it. I thought the pandemic causing everyone to stay inside would decrease the amount,” said WJPS junior Emily Falsone.

“I hope it gets better. If it doesn’t, how are we going to survive?” said WJPS junior Charlize Goichochea.

“5/5: Divestment Day of Action, Climate Change: stories for social justice, Washington University in St. Louis, May 2nd 2013” by 350.org is licensed under CC BY-NC-SA 2.0