What is Carbon Neutrality?
Carbon neutrality is a state where the net carbon footprint of an activity, organization, or product is zero. This is achieved by balancing the amount of carbon dioxide (or other greenhouse gases, often converted to CO₂ equivalent) released into the atmosphere with an equivalent amount of carbon dioxide removed from the atmosphere or offset through carbon credits.
Why is Carbon Neutrality important?
Carbon neutrality serves as an interim or stepping-stone target for many entities on their path towards net-zero emissions. It helps raise awareness about carbon footprints and encourages investments in emissions reduction and carbon offsetting projects, contributing to overall climate action.
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Frequently asked questions
While both involve balancing emissions carbon neutrality often focuses solely on CO₂ and can be achieved through offsets (which may include avoided emissions). Net zero typically encompasses all greenhouse gases and emphasizes deep emissions reductions before relying on carbon removal.
No, carbon neutrality alone is generally not considered sufficient to solve climate change. While it contributes to climate action, deep, absolute emissions reductions are paramount. Many criticize carbon neutrality for its potential over-reliance on offsetting without sufficient internal reductions.
A company typically achieves carbon neutrality by first measuring its carbon footprint, then implementing strategies to reduce emissions internally, and finally purchasing carbon credits to offset any remaining emissions.