Summary
Highlights
Every year, 55 gigatons of greenhouse gases are released into the atmosphere. To halt global warming, these emissions must be reduced to zero. However, immediately shutting down all greenhouse gas-releasing activities worldwide presents an enormous challenge, particularly given the economic head start some nations have had with unrestricted emissions.
Net zero is an approach where for every molecule of greenhouse gas released into the air, one molecule is also removed, resulting in zero net emissions. This approach requires significant changes now and in the future.
Achieving net zero involves making big changes today, such as using less energy more efficiently. It also necessitates even bigger technological changes for the future, including replacing all greenhouse gas-emitting activities with clean alternatives. Additionally, greenhouse gases must be captured from the air and permanently stored. Net zero is presented as the best opportunity for a sustainable future.