Net Zero

Net zero refers to the balance between the amount of greenhouse gas emissions produced and the amount removed from the atmosphere. To achieve net zero, emissions must be reduced as much as possible, with any remaining emissions offset by carbon removal techniques such as reforestation or carbon capture and storage. The Paris Agreement calls for global net zero emissions by the second half of this century to limit global warming to well below 2°C.

Unlike carbon neutrality, which can be achieved through offsetting at any given time, net zero requires significant emission reductions over time, with a focus on decarbonising the economy. Net zero targets are often set with a specific timeline in mind, such as 2050, and require detailed plans and strategies to achieve deep emission cuts across all sectors.