Net Zero is a State, Not a Target

Overview

Net Zero is a state, not a target. In layman's terms, zero emissions is not making a mess; Net Zero is cleaning up what mess you make.

As a parent, if (or should I say when) my kids make a mess, I expect them to clean it up sharpish, not in 20 years’ time. While Net Zero was originally intended to focus on large emitters such as energy companies and cement manufacturers capturing their greenhouse gas emissions at source and storing them underground, the concept has evolved to include individual businesses with Net Zero targets.

The ‘Net’ aspect is concerned with offsetting residual emissions as we collectively strive for zero emissions. As an academic involved in the early discussions on Net Zero, I can confirm that for groups who are in control of their emissions, such as companies, organisations, and individuals (so not governments), Net Zero is a state, not a target. You are either Net Zero or you are not. Groups with Net Zero targets often miss the point, and for me, this could be indicative of a lack of seriousness towards sustainability.

Given that Net Zero is attainable (or would be if there were enough carbon credits, albeit right now, interest is so low that there is currently a massive surplus), companies are putting profit before the environment while believing innocently or otherwise they are green by having a target.

I believe setting a target but not acting could be construed as greenwashing. As a New Year’s resolution, I intend to respectfully address this issue with companies whenever I encounter it and help those who appreciate this realise Net Zero in their businesses, and hopefully, join the great businesses that Vuelta Carbon is already very proud to work with.

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