It is becoming increasingly unlikely that the world will be able to limit soaring temperatures to UN-backed targets, the World Meteorological Organisation (WMO) warned in its latest report.

In its annual Greenhouse Gas Bulletin report, the WMO stated that carbon dioxide (CO2) levels increased by 2.0 parts per million (ppm) year-on-year to 390.9 ppm in 2011. It may be noted here that CO2 is the single most important artificial contributor to climate change.

Launching the report in Geneva, WMO Secretary-General Michel Jarraud said that it was getting increasingly unlikely to achieve temperature targets as the worst global warming gases, viz. CO2, nitrous oxide and methane, had all hit new heights in 2011.

The levels of atmospheric methane, which is the second most significant greenhouse gas after CO2, also ht new high last year, at 1,813 ppb.

Five major gases, including CO2, nitrous oxide and methane, account for 96 per cent of the global warming and climate change.

Speaking on the topic, Mr. Jarraud said, "Even if we were able to stop them tomorrow, these greenhouse gases will continue to have an effect for centuries."

Mr. Jarraud also pointed out the fact that CO2 levels are now at 140 per cent of the pre-industrial level before 1750. He also warned that increasing emissions will only compound the situation in future.