The Road to Net Zero: Part 1 of 3
As the world grapples with the urgent need to combat climate change, the concept of achieving net zero emissions has gained widespread attention. The path to net zero involves balancing human-generated greenhouse gas emissions with removal or sequestration efforts to achieve a state of equilibrium, ultimately curbing the rise in global temperatures. In this article, which is part 1 of 3 articles on net zero in the Australian context, we will delve into the global scientific, political and technological movement underway to reach net zero emissions and explore the key aspects driving this transformative journey.
Understanding Net Zero Emissions
Net zero emissions, also known as carbon neutrality, refers to the state where the total greenhouse gas emissions emitted by human activities are balanced by the removal of an equivalent amount of emissions from the atmosphere.
To understand the significance of net zero emissions, it is necessary to examine the existing baseline of global emissions. Currently, there is a massive challenge in dealing with carbon-intensive sectors such as power generation and transportation. These sectors contribute significantly to global emissions, exacerbating climate change.
Setting targets and timelines has become a critical component of the global net zero movement. An array of countries, regional alliances, and industry-specific initiatives have committed to ambitious targets in their pursuit of net zero emissions. These targets, often linked to specific timelines, provide a roadmap for action at different scales, fostering a sense of urgency and unparalleled collaboration.
The Political Landscape and Global Collaboration
Achieving net zero emissions will require strong political commitment and global collaboration. Numerous international frameworks and initiatives have been established to address climate change, with the Paris Agreement standing out as one of the most prominent. This global accord, signed by nearly all nations, aims to limit global warming to well below 2 degrees Celsius and strive for 1.5 degrees Celsius above pre-industrial levels. It acts as a foundation for countries to develop their net zero strategies and enhance international cooperation.
Governments will play a pivotal role in driving the net zero movement, as they have the power to implement policies, strategies, and regulations and incentivise innovation. Successful national approaches can serve as models for others to emulate. Some countries have already developed national strategies encompassing a range of measures such as carbon pricing mechanisms, stringent regulations, and renewable energy targets.
The private sector is also a key player in the net zero agenda, as corporate sustainability initiatives gain momentum. Businesses are increasingly recognising the importance of reducing their carbon footprint and embracing sustainable practices. Many companies have set ambitious targets to achieve net zero emissions, leading to innovations, collaborations, and investments in clean technologies.
The Scientific Advances Driving the Movement
In recent years, an array of scientific breakthroughs has accelerated the net zero movement. One of the key drivers is the rapid advancement of renewable energy technologies. The expansion of solar, wind, hydro, and other forms of clean energy has paved the way for decarbonisation efforts on a global scale. These sustainable alternatives are not only becoming increasingly cost-effective but are also highly scalable, making them integral to achieving net zero emissions.
Additionally, emerging clean technologies hold immense potential in the quest for net zero:
- Carbon capture and storage (CCS) technologies enable the capture and storage of carbon dioxide emissions, preventing them from entering the atmosphere. See for example Australian company, KC8 Capture Technologies and its UNO MK3 Solvent Process.
- Direct air capture (DAC) technologies go a step further by actively removing carbon dioxide directly from the air. For example, Australia’s AspiraDAC is pioneering a world first modular, scalable and solar-powered DAC technology to remove carbon dioxide from the atmosphere and store it in permanent geological reserves.
Australia’s research and technology development expertise, geology, landmass, existing infrastructure, and potential for cheap, renewable energy resources all offer opportunities for Australia to play a major role in the journey to net zero (which we will return to in later articles).
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