What is Net Zero?
Understanding the critical concept of net zero emissions and why it's essential for climate action
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Section 1 of 5The Net Zero Imperative
Net zero emissions represents a critical threshold in humanity's response to climate change. It means achieving a balance between the greenhouse gases we emit into the atmosphere and those we remove from it. This balance is essential to halt the rise in global temperatures and prevent the worst impacts of climate change.
The concept goes beyond simply reducing emissions - it requires a fundamental transformation of our energy systems, industrial processes, transportation, and land use. Net zero is not just an environmental goal; it's an economic opportunity that will drive innovation and create millions of jobs in clean technologies.
Why Net Zero by 2050?
According to the IPCC, to limit global warming to 1.5°C above pre-industrial levels, global CO₂ emissions must reach net zero by around 2050. Every additional 0.1°C of warming increases climate risks exponentially.
Interactive Net Zero Concept Explorer
⚖️Net Zero
💨GHG Emissions
🌳Carbon Removals
🔄Carbon Neutral
Decarbonization Pathways
Transition to solar, wind, and other clean energy sources
Improve efficiency in buildings, transport, and industry
Replace fossil fuels with electricity from clean sources
Technologies and nature-based solutions to remove CO₂
The Urgency of Net Zero
To limit global warming to 1.5°C, the world needs to reach net zero CO₂ emissions by 2050. Every year of delay makes the challenge harder and more expensive.