Untangling our climate goals
What's the difference between carbon neutral and net zero?
By John Lang
@johnlangabShare
The terms 'carbon neutral' and 'net zero' are often used interchangeably by politicians, businesses and even scientists. But what do they really mean? Also, net zero of what?
For more information and clarity on the confusing world of net zero, see John's other ECIU infographics and the Net Zero Tracker, or visit our friends at Oxford Net Zero.
References
- IPCC, Climate Change 2022: Mitigation of Climate Change, Technical Summary, 2022
- IPCC Glossary, Special Report on 1.5°C, 2018
- Race to Zero Lexicon, Race to Zero Expert Peer Review Group
Acknowledgments
This graphic was inspired, and greatly enhanced, through discussions with Kaya Axelsson and Dr Steve Smith, both of Oxford Net Zero. ECIU's Richard Black also provided valuable input.
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