The level of carbon dioxide (CO2) in the atmosphere has sharply risen, according to a new report.

The report, from the US National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration (Noaa), which has been seen by the BBC, shows a sharp jump in the level of CO2 in the atmosphere.

Based on air samples collected from a variety of locations around the globe, Noaa scientists believe CO2 levels now stand at 381 parts per million (ppm). This is 100 ppm about the pre-industrial average.

And the rate of increase is not diminishing. According to the scientists, 2005 saw one of the largest increases on record, a rise of 2.6 ppm.

Dr Pieter Tans of Noaa told the BBC that the rate appears to be accelerating.

"We don't see any sign of a decrease; in fact, we're seeing the opposite, the rate of increase is accelerating," Dr Pieter Tans said.

Rising CO2 levels will add to pressure on national governments to take action on vehicle emissions, which are a major contributor.

In the UK, the government is expected to take action in next week's budget to encourage the use of greener modes of transport like clean diesel and dual fuel vehicles.


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