What does net zero really mean?

Written by Jasvider Singh from Auditel

Net zero emissions mean that the net amount of greenhouse gases (GHGs) released into the atmosphere is equal to the net amount of greenhouse gases removed from the atmosphere. This can be done through a variety of methods, such as reducing emissions, capturing and storing carbon dioxide, and increasing forest cover.

The benefits of net zero emissions are many. Not only would it halt climate change, but it would also improve public health, create jobs, and increase economic growth. Given the urgent need to address climate change, achieving net zero emissions is a critical step in the right direction toward the UK Gvernments net zero by 2050 targets.

Reducing emissions is the most common way to achieve net zero emissions. This can be done through measures such as energy efficiency, renewable energy, and low-carbon transportation. By reducing the number of greenhouse gases emitted into the atmosphere, we can slowly but surely bring ourselves closer to net zero emissions.

Carbon dioxide capture and storage (CCS) is another method of achieving net zero emissions.

CCS involves capturing carbon dioxide from sources like power plants and factories and storing it in underground facilities. Another developing area is Carbon dioxide capture and utilisation (CCU) which involves capturing and then using the Carbon dioxide within a predetermined production process.

Both these methods help to prevent the gas from entering the atmosphere and contributing to climate change and temperatures increasing.

Increasing forest cover is another way of reducing carbon in the atmosphere. Trees absorb carbon dioxide from the atmosphere as they grow, which helps to offset greenhouse gas emissions.

By increasing sustainable, mature, long-term forest cover, we can reduce the number of greenhouse gases in the atmosphere and contribute to net zero emissions targets.

Achieving net zero emissions is a vital step in combating climate change. It is important to note that there are many ways to achieve this goal, and each method has its own benefits.

Cutting emissions, capturing and storing carbon dioxide, and increasing forest cover are all effective methods of achieving net zero. With the urgent need to address climate change, it is essential that we take climate action now to achieve net-zero emissions as soon as possible.

Why is net zero emissions important?

Net zero emissions is important because it is one of the best ways we can tackle climate change by reducing greenhouse gas emissions and therefore, global warming.

Reducing greenhouse gas emissions is hugely important, but it can’t stop there. The end goal is the balance the scales, and restore the global climate to pre climate change levels.

What is the difference between gross zero and net zero emissions?

You may be wondering why we aren’t reaching for zero emissions, rather than net zero emissions. Zero or gross zero means stopping all greenhouse gas emissions, which in the modern day is not attainable across all sectors of industry.

Net zero looks at overall carbon emissions and allows for the removal of any unavoidable emissions, such as those emitted in the manufacturing process and transportation.

Business carbon management solutions

Auditel are the cost, procurement & carbon solutions company that helps organisations like yours to reduce their carbon emissions and costs at the same time. Learn more about all of our carbon management services on our carbon reduction services page.