Climate change is a global emergency that threatens the lives of humans and ecosystems on Earth. To prevent the worst effects of climate change, countries around the world have committed to achieving net-zero emissions by 2050.
So, what does Net Zero mean? How important is the role of both individuals and organizations in achieving the Net Zero target? Let's find out about EQUO in this article.
1. What is Net Zero?
Net Zero is a state in which the total amount of greenhouse gasses emitted into the environment equals the total amount of greenhouse gasses removed from the atmosphere. In other words, Net Zero is a state in which no additional greenhouse gasses are added to the atmosphere. Net Zero is divided into two phases:
- Phase 1: Reduce greenhouse gas emissions to the lowest possible level.
- Phase 2: Remove excess greenhouse gasses from the atmosphere.
Think of it like a bathtub - when you turn on the tap, water flows in, and when you pull the plug, water flows out. The water level in the bathtub depends on the balance between the amount of water flowing in and the amount flowing out. To keep the water level constant, you need to make sure that the amount of water flowing in and out is perfectly balanced. It's a simple concept, but an important one to understand when it comes to managing resources and maintaining balance in our environment.
And to understand Net Zero even more, we need to understand Carbon Neutral.
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2. What is Carbon Neutral?
Carbon Neutral (carbon neutrality) is a state in which the total amount of carbon dioxide (CO2) emitted into the environment equals the total amount of CO2 removed from the atmosphere. In other words, Carbon Neutral is a state of balance between emissions and CO2 absorption.
Carbon Neutral can be achieved by reducing CO2 emissions from production and consumption activities, while increasing CO2 absorption through ecosystems, such as forests and oceans.
Although both are goals to prevent climate change, there are some differences between the two concepts. Let's find out in the third part.
3. Net Zero vs. Carbon Neutral (What's the difference?)
Net Zero and Carbon Neutral are two important goals to prevent climate change, but there are some differences between the two concepts.
For example, Net Zero includes both the reduction and absorption of all types of greenhouse gasses, while Carbon Neutral only focuses on the reduction and absorption of carbon dioxide (CO2). Additionally, Net Zero aims to achieve a balance between emissions and greenhouse gas absorption by 2050, while Carbon Neutral does not have a specific timeline.
Here is a detailed comparison table of Net Zero vs. Carbon Neutral:
|
Feature |
Net Zero |
Carbon Neutral |
|
Concept |
A state in which the total amount of greenhouse gasses emitted into the environment is equal to the total amount of greenhouse gasses removed from the atmosphere. |
A state in which the total amount of carbon dioxide (CO2) emitted into the environment is equal to the total amount of CO2 removed from the atmosphere. |
|
Types of greenhouse gasses |
Includes all types of greenhouse gasses, such as methane, nitrous oxide, and fluorinated gasses. |
Only focuses on carbon dioxide (CO2). |
|
Timeline |
Sets a goal of achieving a balance between emissions and greenhouse gas absorption by 2050. |
Does not have a specific timeline. |
|
Solutions |
Includes solutions to reduce greenhouse gas emissions and increase greenhouse gas absorption. |
Can focus on solutions to reduce CO2 emissions. |
|
Importance |
An important goal to prevent climate change. |
An important goal to reduce CO2 emissions. |
4. Why achieving net zero is important?
Achieving Net Zero is a significant and urgent goal, bringing numerous benefits to the environment, the economy, and society. Below are four benefits of achieving Net Zero:
4.1. Combating global climate change
Achieving Net Zero is our strategy for confronting global climate change head-on. By reducing greenhouse gas emissions into the environment, we slow down the global warming process and minimize the impact of climate change, such as extreme weather events and rising sea levels.
4.2. Environmental preservation and biodiversity
Net Zero status helps protect the environment and biodiversity by reducing greenhouse gas emissions, improving air and water quality, and minimizing environmental pollution, thus safeguarding threatened ecosystems and species.
4.3. Ensuring energy and resource security
Net Zero status reduces our reliance on unsustainable energy sources like fossil fuels. Transitioning to clean, renewable energy sources enhances energy security, reduces vulnerability to energy supply disruptions, and conserves valuable resources.
4.4. Fostering economic opportunities and innovation
Achieving Net Zero presents economic growth and innovation opportunities. Investing in clean and renewable technologies, creating new green jobs, and promoting green entrepreneurship stimulate economic growth and foster innovative ideas.
5. Net Zero 2050: Commitments from nations
As of October 2023, according to data from the United Nations, Climate Action Tracker, and IRENA, approximately 140 countries have committed to achieving Net Zero by 2050. Notable countries making such commitments include:
- Asia: Japan, South Korea, India, Indonesia, Thailand, Malaysia, Singapore, Vietnam, Philippines,...
- Europe: European Union, United Kingdom, Germany, France, Italy, Spain, Portugal, the Netherlands, Sweden,...
- Americas: United States, Canada, Mexico, Brazil, Argentina, Chile, Peru, Colombia,...
- Africa: South Africa, Egypt, Kenya, Nigeria, Morocco, Algeria,...
- Oceania: Australia, New Zealand, Fiji, Papua New Guinea,...
Please note that the number of countries committing to Net Zero may change over time, with some countries setting earlier or later targets than 2050.
>> References: https://www.visualcapitalist.com/sp/race-to-net-zero-carbon-neutral-goals-by-country/
6. The role of individuals, organizations, and nations in achieving Net Zero
To achieve Net Zero, individuals, organizations, or even entire nations must undertake several actions and strategies, including:
6.1. Reducing waste
- Carry reusable bags when shopping to limit plastic bag use and reuse or recycle plastic items to minimize hard-to-decompose plastic waste.
- Invest in quality products that are long-lasting or opt for products made from natural materials that are environmentally friendly and easily biodegradable in natural environments.
- Tip: You can switch to using sustainable straws made from grass, rice, coffee, sugarcane, or coconut. These straws are 100% biodegradable and can decompose in the environment within 3-6 months. You can find more information about EQUO's sustainable straws at:
>> https://shopequo.com/collections
6.2. Switching to clean transportation
- Use cleaner modes of transportation, and if purchasing a new vehicle, consider an electric car instead of one running on gasoline or diesel.
- Invest in public transportation systems to promote the use of public transportation over private vehicles for commuting.
6.3. Implementing energy efficiency
- Switch to using renewable energy sources and install solar energy systems on rooftops to supply power to households or businesses.
- Optimize energy efficiency by using energy-saving devices such as LED lights, inverter air conditioners, and high-efficiency washing machines.
6.4. Raising awareness and education
- Educate and encourage the community about the importance of Net Zero, and participate in climate change awareness events.
- Promote community and organizational involvement in environmental protection activities, such as tree planting or waste cleanup campaigns.
6.5. Assessing and monitoring progress
- Regularly assess greenhouse gas emissions and progress towards achieving Net Zero. Monitor the emissions of households or businesses.
- Report and be transparent about the actions taken and results achieved, and share information about emission reduction actions on social media.
The above provides essential information about Net Zero and the roles of individuals, organizations, and nations in achieving this goal. Let's work together to reach Net Zero, protect the environment, and build a sustainable future for our world!
