The Net Zero Overview

The term “Net zero” describes the balance in the atmosphere between the amount of greenhouse gas emissions released into and removed from the atmosphere in a bid to reduce global warming. Net zero allows some emissions to be above zero levels as long as they are offset elsewhere. Therefore, It doesn’t mean the absence of emissions but that emissions are somehow negated as they are generated. Net zero is an internationally agreed mitigation technique for global emissions and warming. 

The goal of the Paris Agreement in 2015 is to limit global warming to well below 2 degrees Celsius and limit the temperature increase to 1.5 degrees Celsius, above pre-industrial levels. Thus, the reports on the Global Warming Intergovernmental Panel on Climate Change noted that to achieve the goals of the Paris Agreement, it is crucial to attaining a global emission balance (Net-zero) by 2050.

Ways to achieve net zero:

1. Decarbonizing the transport sector by electrifying transport can go a long way to help in attaining Net zero goals globally, as the transport sector contributes about 15% to global emissions, according to COP Presidency.
2. Improving energy efficiency in buildings will help reduce global emissions. In addition, improved ventilation and natural lighting can help reduce the need for air conditioning in tropical regions and conserve energy.
3. Introducing Carbon Sinks to absorb GHG emissions in the atmosphere. A typical carbon sink is a forest; Plants play a crucial role in absorbing CO2 in the atmosphere.
4. Carbon Capture and Storage is a technique which takes carbon from industrial activities or power generation and stores it in the ground.

Several countries have committed to reaching Net-zero and have adopted a target year to achieve this goal.

Data Retrieved from:

• Emissions Gap Report 2022: The Closing Window – Climate crisis calls for rapid transformation of societies, UN Report
• https://climateactiontracker.org/