10 Common belief but False Idea on Net Zero Emission

aego8smithMarch 1, 2024

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Myth 1: Net Zero Equals Zero Emissions

People often interpret “Net Zero” as an end state where no emissions are being produced at all. This misunderstanding might stem from the term “zero,” suggesting a total elimination of emissions. Net Zero Emissions means that any greenhouse gas (GHG) emissions produced by human activities are balanced by an equivalent amount of GHGs being taken out of the atmosphere.

Although carbon dioxide (CO2) is the primary focus, Net Zero also encompasses other greenhouse gases like methane (CH4) and nitrous oxide (N2O)

The reality is more about balancing the emissions equation. If a certain amount of GHGs is emitted, an equivalent amount must be removed from the atmosphere. Net Zero involves both reducing emissions as much as possible and then neutralizing the remaining emissions through removal or offset strategies.

Myth 2: Carbon Offsetting Is Always Effective

Carbon offsetting involves compensating for emissions of carbon dioxide (CO2) or other greenhouse gases (GHGs) made from industrial or human activity by participating in initiatives designed to make equivalent reductions of CO2 in the atmosphere. Organizations or individuals calculate their carbon footprint and then purchase carbon credits to “offset” their emissions. Each credit typically represents the removal or avoidance of one tonne of CO2.

The misconception is that offsetting alone is a sufficient and effective strategy for combating climate change. It implies that as long as emissions are offset, continuing current levels of pollution is acceptable.

Reliance on offsets can sometimes lead to greenwashing, where companies or individuals claim environmental responsibility while continuing unsustainable practices.

Some considerations in carbon offsetting

• Offsetting should be seen as one component of a comprehensive climate strategy (Prioritizing direct emission reductions is important)
• Some offset projects can have unintended consequences, such as land rights issues or negative impacts on local ecosystems

Myth 3: All Responsibilities Are Equal

The misconception is that every country or entity (like corporations) should contribute equally to achieving Net Zero, regardless of their historical emissions, current emission levels, economic status, and development needs.

Developed countries have been historically industrializing and emitting greenhouse gases (GHGs) for much longer than developing countries. The per capita emissions in developed countries are generally much higher than those in developing countries

Wealthier nations generally have more resources to invest in clean technologies and transition towards low-carbon economies. Developing countries often face more significant challenges due to limited financial resources and infrastructure. Consequenctly, Developing countries argue for their right to economic development, which might include using fossil fuels, as developed countries have done historically.

In reality, “Common but Differentiated Responsibilities (CBDR)”,the principle of international environmental law establishing that all states are responsible for addressing global environmental destruction yet not equally responsible. All countries are responsible for addressing climate change, their responsibilities and abilities vary.

Some considerations

• Developing strategies that allow for economic growth and poverty alleviation in developing countries while also their responsibilities in terms of emission reductions are also expected to increase.
• Developed countries are expected to lead in reducing emissions and provide support to developing countries. This includes financial aid, technological support, and capacity building.
• Large corporations, especially in the fossil fuel industry, have a significant impact on global emissions. Their responsibilities should differ from smaller businesses or those in less carbon-intensive sectors.

Myth 4: Only Large Emitters Need to Act

The misconception is that addressing climate change is primarily the responsibility of the largest emitters, and that actions by smaller countries, businesses, or individuals are inconsequential or unnecessary.

In reality, climate change is driven by the cumulative nature of greenhouse gases in the atmosphere. All sources, big and small, contribute to the problem. The cumulative effect of smaller sources is significant. The fight against climate change requires widespread participation across all levels.

Localized efforts can collectively lead to global impact. Moreover, local actions can set examples, create demand for sustainable products, and influence broader societal change.

Myth 5: Carbon Capture and Storage (CCS) Will Solve Everything

The misconception is that CCS technology alone can sufficiently address global CO2 emissions, allowing business-as-usual in terms of fossil fuel use and industrial processes.

In reality, CCS is effective for certain types of emissions, particularly from large point sources like power plants. However, it’s less feasible for diffuse sources like transportation or agricultural emissions. Morevoer, CCS is expensive and energy-intensive. It’s still an evolving technology and not yet widely implemented at the scale needed to significantly impact global emissions. Relying solely on CCS could detract from the urgent need to reduce emissions directly at the source.

• The cost of Carbon Capture and Storage (CCS) varies depending on the process, capture technology, CO2 transportation, and storage location.
• CCS remains expensive due to its complex design and the need for customized solutions, which restricts its broader implementation.
• In comparison to other energy technologies like solar and wind, CCS has shown slower cost reduction, despite over 50 years of commercial use.
• The economic sustainability of CCS in the oil and gas sector is still largely dependent on support from governments, unlike renewable technologies which generally needed government aid only in their initial development stages.
• CCS could be important in hard-to-decarbonize industrial sectors like cement and steel that are challenging to decarbonize. These sectors often lack alternative materials or fully decarbonization technologies.

Myth 6: One-Size-Fits-All Approach

The idea that a “One-Size-Fits-All Approach” can be applied to achieve Net Zero Emissions is a significant misconception in the context of climate action. There’s no universal blueprint for achieving Net Zero. Strategies must be customized to different geographical, economic, and social contexts.

Understanding the diverse contexts in climate Action

• Variation in Emissions Sources: Different countries and regions have varying primary sources of emissions, such as industry, transportation, agriculture, or deforestation.
• Economic and Developmental Differences: Developed countries typically have more resources and technologies to invest in emission reduction strategies, whereas developing countris might require support in terms of finance, technology, and capacity building.
• Cultural and Behavioral Aspects: Approachs must consider local cultural practices, lifestyles, and societal norms, which vary widely across the globe.

The concept of a “One-Size-Fits-All Approach” is not practical or effective in the context of achieving Net Zero Emissions. Climate action requires costomized approaches that respect and address the diverse conditions, needs, and capabilities of different regions and communities.

Myth 7: Net Zero Policies Are Always Environmentally Beneficial

The misconception is that any policy labeled as ‘Net Zero’ is inherently good for the environment across all dimensions (biodiversity, water resources, soil health, and air quality).

In reality, Some strategies may have trade-offs or unintended negative consequences for the environment. For example,

• Large-scale bioenergy projects might lead to deforestation, loss of biodiversity, or competition with food production.
• The manufacturing of solar panels and batteries involves resource extraction and can produce toxic waste.
• Human and animal waste used to power engines may cut down on carbon emissions, but increase harmful methane emission.
• Geothermal sites often hold hazardous gases, which risk being released during the drilling process into the Earth’s surface.

Some considerations

• A comprehensive environmental impact assessment is important for any Net Zero policy to ensure it doesn’t inadvertently harm other environmental aspects.
• Net Zero policies need to consider the sustainable use of natural resources, avoiding over-exploitation and ensuring long-term environmental health.
• Policies should ensure the protection and enhancement of biodiversity and ecosystem integrity, not just focus on carbon emissions.
• Policymakers must be prepared to adapt and modify strategies in response to new scientific findings and environmental monitoring.
• Involving communities and stakeholders in the policy-making process can lead to more environmentally and socially sensitive outcomes.

Myth 8: Net Zero Is Only a Government and Corporate Responsibility

Net Zero emissions, they are not the only responsible parties. Climate action is a collective endeavor that requires the engagement and contributions of individuals, communities, NGOs, financial institutions, and other stakeholders. Each group has unique strengths and capabilities that are essential for a holistic and effective approach to addressing climate change.

Government Actions

• Governments play a role in setting policies, regulations, and targets for reducing greenhouse gas emissions.
• Governments also invest in and facilitate the development of necessary infrastructure like renewable energy systems and public transportation networks.

Corporate Actions

• Corporations, especially large emitters, have a significant impact on overall emissions and can lead the way in reducing emissions from their operations and supply chains.
• Businesses can invest in innovative technologies and practices that reduce emissions, contributing to the overall goal of Net Zero.

Individual Actions

• Every individual’s choices regarding transportation, diet, energy use, and consumption have an impact on GHG emissions.
• Consumers can influence companies and governments through advocacy, activism, and market demand for sustainable products and practices.

Community and Local Initiatives:

• Communities can implement customized solutions that address their specific needs and circumstances.

NGOs and Civil Society

• NGOs can educate the public, advocating for stronger policies, and holding corporations and governments accountable.
• NGOs and academic institutions contribute to research and development of new technologies and strategies for emission reduction.

Financial Institutions

• Banks and investors can influence the transition to a low-carbon economy through their investment and divestment decisions.
• Financial support for green technologies and sustainable practices.

Myth 9: Economic Growth and Net Zero Are Incompatible

This misconception arises from traditional economic models that heavily rely on fossil fuels and resource-intensive processes, suggesting that reducing emissions would inherently limit economic activity and growth.

How economic growth and net zero can coexist

• Technologies have made it possible to achieve more with less energy and fewer resources, leading to lower emissions.
• The global shift towards service-based economies, which typically emit less than manufacturing-based economies, also aids in decoupling growth from emissions.
• Renewable energy sectors such as solar, wind, and hydroelectric power have become increasingly cost-competitive and can drive economic growth while reducing reliance on fossil fuels.
• The transition to a low-carbon economy is creating new markets and job opportunities in green technologies, and other environmentally friendly sectors.

• Adopting a circular economy approach can stimulate economic growth while minimizing waste and emissions.
• Reducing emissions often means less air pollution, leading to significant public health improvements and associated economic benefits.

Myth 10: Net Zero Is Only About Energy Emissions

The misconception is that tackling emissions from energy production and use (like electricity, heating, and transportation) is sufficient to achieve

Net Zero. GHG emissions come from a variety of sources including agriculture, land use changes (like deforestation), industrial processes, and waste management, in addition to energy. Each of these sectors requires specific strategies for emission reduction or carbon sequestration.

Other key emission sectors are:

• Agriculture is a significant source of methane (CH4) and nitrous oxide (N2O), particularly from livestock, rice cultivation, and fertilizer use.
• Deforestation and land degradation contribute to CO2 emissions.
• Industries like cement, steel, and chemicals produce GHGs through energy use and specific chemical reactions inherent in their processes
• Landfills produce methane, and the incineration of waste generates CO2.

Key takeaways

1. Myth 1 – Net Zero Equals Zero Emissions: Net Zero does not mean no emissions at all. It’s about balancing the amount of greenhouse gases emitted with an equivalent amount removed from the atmosphere.
2. Myth 2 – Carbon Offsetting Is Always Effective: Carbon offsetting alone isn’t a complete solution. While useful, it must be combined with actual reductions in emissions and sustainable practices.
3. Myth 3 – All Responsibilities Are Equal: Responsibilities for climate action vary. Developed countries and major polluters have greater responsibilities compared to developing nations, considering historical emissions and resources.
4. Myth 4 – Only Large Emitters Need to Act: Climate action requires efforts from all levels – not just large emitters but also smaller countries, businesses, and individuals. Every contribution is significant.
5. Myth 5 – Carbon Capture and Storage (CCS) Will Solve Everything: CCS is an important tool but not a silver bullet. It should be part of a wider array of solutions including reducing emissions at their source.
6. Myth 6 – One-Size-Fits-All Approach: Climate strategies must be customized to different geographical, economic, and cultural contexts. There’s no universal solution that works for everyone.
7. Myth 7 – Net Zero Policies Are Always Environmentally Beneficial: Net Zero policies can have unintended consequences. It’s important to consider holistic environmental impacts beyond just reducing carbon emissions.
8. Myth 8 – Net Zero Is Only a Government and Corporate Responsibility: Achieving Net Zero requires action from all sectors of society, including governments, corporations, communities, and individuals.
9. Myth 9 – Economic Growth and Net Zero Are Incompatible: Sustainable economic growth and Net Zero are compatible. Transitioning to a low-carbon economy can drive innovation, create jobs, and open new markets.
10. Myth 10 – Net Zero Is Only About Energy Emissions: Net Zero encompasses more than just energy emissions. It includes emissions from agriculture, industry, land use, and waste management.

Disclaimer:

The views and opinions expressed in this Linkedin article are solely my own and do not represent the views or opinions of my current employer. This article is a personal reflection and does not involve any proprietary or confidential information from my current company. Any similarities in ideas or concepts presented in this article to my current company’s work are purely coincidental.