Sometimes known as net zero carbon or just net zero, this describes a state where any Carbon Dioxide (CO2) or Greenhouse Gas (GHG) emissions left over after decarbonisation are offset by negative emissions, of CO2, of an equivalent amount from the atmosphere, resulting in no net GHG impact.
What does this mean for the UK?
Carbon net zero means that the UK’s total GHG emissions would be equal to or less than the emissions the UK removed from the environment. This can be achieved by a combination of emission reduction and emission removal.
The carbon net zero target requires total decarbonisation of electricity, transport, buildings, industry, and the public sector, with interim targets and legislation to help us get there.
