net zero
NET ZEE-roh
nɛt ˈzɪərəʊListen
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Syllable breakdown
Dictionary meaning
a state in which all greenhouse gas emissions produced by human activity are balanced by an equivalent amount of removal from the atmosphere, leaving no net increase; goes beyond carbon neutrality by covering all greenhouse gases (CO2, methane, nitrous oxide, etc.); the central target of the Paris Agreement's 1.5°C pathway; requires both steep emissions reductions and carbon removal; many countries and corporations have set net-zero targets, typically by 2050
Examples
- The UK became the first major economy to legislate a net-zero target, aiming for 2050.
- Critics warn that 'net zero by 2050' pledges without near-term action are meaningless.
American: 'ZEE-roh'; British: 'ZIH-roh'. Otherwise identical.
Synonyms: climate neutrality, zero net emissions, carbon neutral (informal)
Pronunciation tips
The 'net' means the total balance after subtracting removals from emissions. It does not mean zero emissions — it means the balance is zero.
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