What is Net Zero?
Achieving a balance between greenhouse gas emissions produced and emissions removed from the atmosphere. Net zero requires deep emission reductions across Scope 1, 2, and 3, with residual emissions addressed through carbon removal rather than offsets.
Why it matters
Net zero has become the benchmark commitment for credible climate action. UK government suppliers must commit to net zero by 2050 under PPN 006, and many large corporates are pushing similar expectations through their supply chains.
Example
A mid-sized construction firm sets a net zero target for 2045, backed by a 42% absolute reduction in Scope 1 and 2 by 2030 from a 2024 baseline. The commitment is published in its Carbon Reduction Plan.
Related terms
Carbon Neutral
A state where an organisation's net carbon emissions equal zero, typically achieved through a combination of emission reductions and carbon offsets. Carbon neutral differs from net zero as it allows greater use of carbon offsets.
Carbon Removal
The process of capturing carbon dioxide from the atmosphere and storing it permanently. Carbon removal methods include afforestation, bioenergy with carbon capture and storage (BECCS), direct air capture, and enhanced weathering.
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