The carbon budget and its impact on land, ocean and atmosphere including global climate
The carbon budget measures whether Earth absorbs more carbon than it releases, or vice versa. An imbalance drives climate change by altering how much CO₂ builds up in the atmosphere.
Real World
The Global Carbon Project reported that in 2023 human activities emitted roughly 36.8 billion tonnes of CO₂, while land and ocean sinks absorbed only about half that amount, leaving the rest to accumulate in the atmosphere and drive warming.
Exam Focus
Define 'carbon budget' precisely — examiners expect the input-minus-output framing, not just a vague reference to emissions.
Essay Framework
Use PEEL to structure every paragraph. Tap each step for guidance and an example.
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