Snapshot: Net-zero, emission scopes and climate scenarios...

Net-zero is a term that you've probably heard a lot lately, especially when it comes to climate change. But what does it actually mean, and how can we achieve it? In this blog post, we'll explore what net-zero means, the different scopes of emissions, and the different climate scenarios that we face.

Firstly, what is net-zero? Net-zero means achieving a balance between the amount of greenhouse gases we emit and the amount that we remove from the atmosphere. This balance is achieved by reducing emissions through measures such as renewable energy and energy efficiency, as well as by removing emissions from the atmosphere through measures such as carbon capture and storage.

When it comes to emissions, there are three different scopes. Scope 1 emissions are direct emissions from sources that a company or organization owns or controls, such as emissions from their vehicles or manufacturing processes. Scope 2 emissions are indirect emissions from the generation of electricity, heating, or cooling that a company or organization purchases. Scope 3 emissions are all other indirect emissions, such as emissions from the production of goods that a company purchases, business travel, and employee commuting.

Now, let's explore the different climate scenarios that we face. According to the Intergovernmental Panel on Climate Change (IPCC), there are different climate scenarios depending on how much greenhouse gas emissions are reduced. These scenarios range from a business-as-usual scenario, where emissions continue to rise, to a scenario where emissions are reduced to net-zero by 2050.

In the business-as-usual scenario, temperatures could rise by as much as 4.8 degrees Celsius by the end of the century, which would have catastrophic consequences for the planet. However, if we reduce emissions to net-zero by 2050, we could limit temperature rise to 1.5 degrees Celsius and avoid the worst impacts of climate change.

So, how can we achieve net-zero emissions? It's not going to be easy, but it's possible. We need to transition to renewable energy sources such as wind and solar power, electrify transportation, improve energy efficiency, and reduce our consumption of meat and dairy. We also need to invest in carbon capture and storage technologies to remove emissions from the atmosphere.

In conclusion, achieving net-zero emissions is essential if we want to avoid the worst impacts of climate change. By understanding the different scopes of emissions and the different climate scenarios, we can take action to reduce our emissions and work towards a more sustainable future. It's up to all of us to make a difference and create a better world for future generations.