All terms

Emissions Reduction

Any action that decreases the amount of greenhouse gases released into the atmosphere.

What is Emissions Reduction?

Emissions reduction refers to any action or process that decreases the amount of greenhouse gases (GHG) released into the atmosphere from various sources. This can involve improving energy efficiency, switching to cleaner fuels, adopting sustainable practices, or implementing technologies that prevent emissions from occurring.

Why is Emissions Reduction important?

Emissions reduction is the most critical and primary strategy for combating climate change. Preventing new greenhouse gases from entering the atmosphere is more effective than trying to remove them once they are there. Deep and rapid emissions reductions are essential to limit global warming and achieve climate targets.

Related terms

Want to explore this topic further? Browse connected glossary terms below.

Avoided Emissions

Reductions in greenhouse gas emissions that occur outside a project's direct scope but are attributable to the project.

Core definitions
Net Zero

Achieving a balance between anthropogenic greenhouse gas emissions and removals.

Core definitions
Voluntary Carbon Market (VCM)

A market where carbon credits are traded voluntarily by companies or individuals.

Core definitions

Frequently asked questions

What are common strategies for emissions reduction?

Common strategies include transitioning to renewable energy, improving energy efficiency in buildings and industry, electrifying transportation, optimizing industrial processes, reducing waste, and adopting sustainable agriculture practices.

What's the relationship between emissions reduction and carbon removal?

Emissions reduction is the first priority; it's about turning off the tap of new emissions. Carbon removal is about cleaning up the existing pollution. Both are necessary to achieve net-zero and climate stability.

Does emissions reduction always mean zero emissions?

No, emissions reduction means decreasing emissions, not necessarily eliminating them entirely. The goal is to reduce them as much as possible, with any remaining 'residual' emissions potentially being offset by carbon removal.