Description: The concept of ‘Net Zero’ refers to a state where greenhouse gas (GHG) emissions are balanced by the amount of GHGs removed from the atmosphere. This balance is crucial for mitigating climate change and its adverse effects on the environment and society. The central idea behind ‘Net Zero’ is that, although some human activities inevitably generate emissions, it is possible to offset them by implementing technologies and practices that absorb or reduce the amount of carbon in the atmosphere. This can include reforestation, carbon capture and storage, and the use of renewable energy. The transition to a ‘Net Zero’ state involves a significant shift in how we produce and consume energy, as well as in our industrial and agricultural practices. The relevance of this concept has grown in the last decade, driven by the urgency to address climate change and international commitments, such as the Paris Agreement, which seeks to limit global temperature rise. Achieving ‘Net Zero’ is not only an environmental goal but also represents an opportunity for technological innovation and sustainable development, promoting a cleaner and more resilient future for generations to come.
History: The term ‘Net Zero’ began to gain popularity in the 2000s, in the context of discussions about climate change and the need to reduce greenhouse gas emissions. In 2015, the Paris Agreement marked an important milestone by setting global targets to limit global warming, leading many countries and companies to commit to achieving ‘Net Zero’ by 2050. Since then, various initiatives and policies have emerged worldwide to promote the transition toward this goal.
Uses: The concept of ‘Net Zero’ is primarily used in the fields of sustainability and climate policy. It is applied in formulating strategies to reduce carbon emissions in sectors such as energy, transportation, agriculture, and industry. Various organizations also adopt this approach to enhance their social responsibility and meet consumer and regulatory expectations regarding sustainability.
Examples: Examples of ‘Net Zero’ initiatives include commitments from companies like Microsoft and Google to achieve this goal by 2030, as well as countries like Sweden and New Zealand, which have set ‘Net Zero’ targets for 2045 and 2050, respectively. Additionally, reforestation projects and carbon capture technologies are being implemented in various regions to contribute to this goal.
