In the world we live in, climate change is at the top of the list of global challenges. You might have heard the term Net Zero mentioned in various contexts or even spotted it during an event like the Formula 1. In this blog, we'll dive into the importance of this concept. If you're interested in understanding what Net Zero means and why it's crucial for every organization, keep reading.
What is Net Zero?
Net Zero, in simple terms, is about finding a balance between the amount of greenhouse gases (GHG) emitted into the atmosphere and the amount removed from it.
It's like achieving equilibrium between emissions and carbon removals.
Striking this balance is a complex process that involves taking various measures
to reduce emissions or increase the removal of greenhouse gases. Actions
include tree planting, installation of carbon capture, utilization and storage
technologies, and investing in sustainable projects that contribute to emission
reduction, such as renewable energy use and energy efficiency improvements.
Why is Net Zero important?
It's pretty straightforward – the concept of Net Zero aims to prevent the worst
impacts of climate change and preserve our planet to make it suitable for life.
According to the Paris Agreement, the European Union (EU) has committed to
reducing GHG emissions by at least 55 % by 2030 compared to 1990 levels. EU
member states are working together to achieve this goal, and a comprehensive
legislative framework has been established for it.
With the adoption of the new Green Deal, the EU has set an even more
ambitious target – achieving climate neutrality by 2050. To do this, increased
efforts in GHG emission reduction will be necessary. The Union's objective is to
establish an economy where GHG emissions are equal to or less than the
removals, with the aim of holding the increase in the global average temperature
to well below 2 ºC above pre-industrial levels and to pursue efforts to limit the
temperature increase to 1.5 ºC.
Thinking globally and acting locally is the path we all need to collectively
follow.
Organizations, by accurately measuring their carbon footprint and later defining
and implementing measures to reduce it, are part of the solution to the problem
of climate change. The long-term goal should be carbon neutrality or achieving
Net Zero.
Considering this, setting ambitious emission reduction goals is essential for
organizations to take responsibility for their carbon footprint and contribute to
global efforts to mitigate climate change. Moreover, reducing GHG emissions can
have a positive impact on energy costs and on a company's reputation,
potentially attracting new investors and customers.
The transition to a climate-neutral society is an ambitious challenge and an
opportunity to build a better future.
Achieving this goal requires the efforts of us all. If you're unsure where to start or
have questions about your carbon footprint, don't hesitate to reach out to us at info@netzero.hr.
Photo: Freepik