Net Zero Explained
Net zero refers to the global target of completely negating the amount of greenhouse gases produced by human activity.
This can be achieved by lowering the cap of emissions on carbon markets, driving up the cost of carbon credits, and implementing methods of absorbing carbon dioxide from the atmosphere.
Achieving net zero will require major changes in the way we live and work, but it is essential in order to prevent the worst impacts of climate change.
There are many ways to reach net zero, and each country will have to tailor its approach to its own circumstances. But some common measures include:
- Switching to renewable energy sources like solar and wind power
- Improving energy efficiency in buildings and appliances
- Electrifying transportation
- Planting trees and other vegetation to absorb carbon dioxide
- Reducing deforestation
- Developing new technologies to capture and store carbon dioxide emissions underground or in the ocean.
To reach it will be a huge challenge, but it is essential if we are to avert the worst impacts of climate change. With concerted effort and international cooperation, it is achievable.
Net zero, or 100% renewable, is the goal to which many in the energy industry aspire. Reaching it would mean that, globally, we are no longer emitting more greenhouse gases than we are taking out of the atmosphere. It is seen as an important step on the way to averting the worst effects of climate change.
Exploring these energy efficiency tactics further, one approach is to simply reduce emissions of greenhouse gases until they reach zero. Another is to offset emissions by planting trees or investing in other activities that absorb carbon dioxide from the atmosphere.
Achieving net zero will require major changes in the way we live and work, but it is essential in order to prevent the worst impacts of climate change.
2050 is an ambitious target, but one that is necessary to protect our planet and preserve society as we know it.