Embracing net zero

Net zero is our strongest tool yet against the climate crisis. The transition to net-zero emissions presents a compelling solution that offers not only environmental benefits but also economic, social and health advantages.

Failing to act swiftly and decisively risks catastrophic climate change, including extreme weather events, sea-level rise, biodiversity loss, and disruptions to food and water supplies.

1. What is net zero?

While there are variations in definitions of net zero, the ISO Net Zero Guidelines (IWA 42:2022) define net zero as “a condition in which human-caused residual greenhouse gas emissions (GHG) are balanced by human-led removals over a specified period and within specified boundaries”. Achieving this balance is a complex process involving emission reductions, offsetting and innovative technologies.

2. Why do we need net zero?

The emissions released by human action are taking their toll on our planet and propelling us further towards an irreversible climate crisis. Transformative net-zero goals, especially when led by governments worldwide, can help limit temperature rise to 1.5 °C by 2100. This will require reaching net-zero CO2 emissions by 2050 along with deep reductions in emissions of other greenhouse gases.

3. How do businesses benefit from net zero?

Net-zero buildings are one example of how businesses can move towards these goals. Leading enterprises are cutting emissions throughout the life cycle of the buildings they own and operate. This can be done in two ways: by retrofitting existing structures and ensuring new structures have a small carbon footprint.

These buildings are designed to generate as much energy as they consume over the course of a year, thus achieving net-zero energy consumption and, in many cases, net-zero carbon emissions.

In the digital realm, the concept of net-zero Internet is also emerging. This refers to the concept of achieving carbon neutrality or net-zero emissions in the operation and use of the Internet and digital technologies.

It aims to mitigate the environmental impact associated with the rapidly growing digital infrastructure, data centres, telecommunications networks, and the overall energy consumption of the Internet.

ISO Net Zero Guidelines

These principles provide a roadmap for organizations, including businesses, on their journey towards net-zero GHG emissions. The Net Zero Guidelines provide common definitions, high-level principles and actionable guidance towards achieving net zero by 2050. They also help entities make credible claims and develop consistent reports on emissions, reductions and removals.

Key elements include:

1. Emission reductions: Reducing emissions at the source is the most effective way to achieve net zero. Examples of emissions reduction measures include improving energy efficiency, switching to renewable energy sources and low-carbon products, and innovating processes to reduce waste.
2. Carbon offsetting: For emissions that cannot be eliminated, carbon offsetting is a valid solution. This involves investing in carbon credits from projects that remove or reduce GHGs in the atmosphere.
3. Transparency and accountability: Regular monitoring and reporting of GHG emissions is crucial for transparency and accountability. This also helps businesses identify areas for improvement and track progress towards their net-zero goals.
4. Stakeholder engagement: Engaging stakeholders – employees, customers, investors and the wider community – is key to a successful implementation of net-zero strategies. This fosters a culture of sustainability and drives collective action towards emission reductions.
5. Equity and justice: The Net Zero Guidelines align with the United Nations Sustainable Development Goals. Climate action takes into account the burdens of climate change and ensures that the costs and opportunities are equitably shared, safeguarding the rights of the most vulnerable.

The case for moving to net zero is undeniable. It presents an unparalleled opportunity to safeguard our planet, protect human health, drive economic prosperity, and secure a sustainable future for generations to come. We must collectively commit to this imperative, taking bold and decisive action to transition to a net-zero economy.