Explaining the key differences between 'net zero' and 'carbon neutral': William Beer

Carbon neutral refers to the state of having sum total zero carbon emissions which is achieved primarily through carbon offsetting.

Carbon offsetting is the practice of purchasing carbon credits which are qualified activity which reduce the CO2 in the atmosphere (e.g. reforestation and solar power installation). PAS 2060 describe the process of an entity being carbon neutral.

To achieve this the company must have an initial baseline carbon assessment, followed by a second year of full carbon footprint and offsetting against all annual emissions. This then qualifies the entity as carbon neutral, however there is further reporting and offsetting required in the continuing years to retain carbon neutrality.

So what is net zero?

To achieve net zero by SBTi standards, individuals, businesses, and governments are required to commit to a carbon reduction strategy which will limit average global temperature increased to below 1.5C.

This is measured by sector specific guidance and approaches provided by SBTi. Carbon offsets are excluded from meeting these carbon reduction targets.

The entity therefore must act upon planned carbon reduction initiatives and demonstrate the actual carbon reduction achieved through these targets.

While initially the terms net zero and carbon neutral may seem interchangeable, there are key differences.

Net zero requires carbon reduction initiatives in place which reduces the amount of greenhouse gas emission directly released by the entity.

However, carbon neutrality only requires a balance between measured emissions produced and emissions absorbed without any reduction requirements.

In lay terms, net zero is a more comprehensive and ambitious goal for sustainability than carbon neutrality.

Achieving net zero carbon requires a concerted effort from individuals, businesses, and

governments. Here is the down low for achieving net zero carbon in three easy steps!

1. Conduct a carbon audit: Firstly, all emissions should be quantified and categorised to identify the entities baseline carbon footprint.

2. Implement carbon reduction strategies: With emissions in hand carbon reduction strategies can be selected for highest impact. This can include upgrading the energy efficiency of appliances, swapping to electric vehicles, or changing to renewable energy sources.

3. Offset remaining emissions: After reduction of carbon emissions there will inevitably be some remaining emissions. Only when there are no feasible options for reduction should you then offset against the remaining emissions with a reliable third-party provider of carbon offset credits.

Reaching net zero carbon is critical to mitigating the effects of climate change and creating a sustainable future.

Dr William Beer is CEO of Tunley Environmental