What does it mean and where do we stand on global targets?

To ‘go net zero’ is to reduce greenhouse gas emissions and/or to ensure that any ongoing emissions are balanced by removals. These gasses, produced by burning fossil fuels and farming, trap the sun’s energy and raise global temperatures.

In the 2015 Paris climate agreement, 197 countries committed to limiting global temperature increases to 1.5°C by 2100. To achieve this, scientists recommend reaching net-zero CO2 emissions by 2050. However, the UN has since urged countries to accelerate their net-zero goals by a decade to avert a worsening climate crisis.

Would net zero mean a complete end to greenhouse gas emissions?

Some emissions can’t be eliminated entirely, so we offset them by removing greenhouse gasses from the atmosphere, called “offsetting.” These methods include planting trees, restoring peatlands, and utilizing emerging industrial techniques like carbon capture and storage, though those are more costly. It’s important to note that offsetting can only mitigate a fraction of emissions. Making substantial cuts in fossil fuel use is essential to achieve the net-zero goal we desire.

What have other countries promised?

Around 140 countries, responsible for 90% of global emissions, have committed to net-zero goals, but not all by 2050. China, the top global CO2 producer, aims for carbon neutrality by 2060, while the US, the historical top emitter, pledges net-zero by 2050 with the Inflation Reduction Act. The EU, the third-largest emitter, has a 2050 net-zero target with the Net Zero Industry Act. India and Russia, also significant emitters, target net zero by 2070 and 2060, respectively, but have limited published policies to substantied their goals.

What are some problems with net zero targets?

1. Ambiguity and Lack of Specificity: Many net-zero targets lack clear and specific plans for achieving the goal. Governments and organizations may set ambitious targets without providing concrete details on how they intend to reduce emissions across different sectors.

2. Greenwashing: Some entities may use net-zero commitments as a form of greenwashing, where they appear to be taking action on climate change while continuing business as usual or relying heavily on carbon offsetting rather than genuine emissions reductions.

3. Technological and Economic Challenges: Achieving net zero often requires the development and deployment of new technologies, some of which may be expensive or not yet widely available. This can pose economic and technological challenges.

4. Social and Economic Impacts: The transition to net zero can have significant social and economic impacts, including potential job losses in carbon-intensive industries. Ensuring a just transition and addressing these impacts can be challenging.

5. Global Equity and Responsibility: The distribution of responsibility for emissions reduction can be contentious. Developing countries may argue that they should have more time and support to transition to low-carbon economies, given that historically, most emissions have come from developed nations.