A slowdown in industrial activity linked to the coronavirus pandemic has cut emissions of pollutants and heat-trapping greenhouse gases but hasn’t reduced their record levels in the atmosphere, AP reported quoting the United Nations weather agency.

The World Meteorological Organisation pointed to a record-setting surge of carbon dioxide emissions in recent years, but warned that any reduction in levels as a result of a pandemic-related industrial slowdown will take years to materialise. The organisation also said this can best be achieved if countries are able to cut their greenhouse gas emissions to zero.