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The meaning of net zero and how to get it right

Author

Listed:
  • Sam Fankhauser

    (University of Oxford
    University of Oxford)

  • Stephen M. Smith

    (University of Oxford)

  • Myles Allen

    (University of Oxford)

  • Kaya Axelsson

    (University of Oxford)

  • Thomas Hale

    (University of Oxford)

  • Cameron Hepburn

    (University of Oxford)

  • J. Michael Kendall

    (University of Oxford)

  • Radhika Khosla

    (University of Oxford)

  • Javier Lezaun

    (University of Oxford)

  • Eli Mitchell-Larson

    (University of Oxford)

  • Michael Obersteiner

    (University of Oxford)

  • Lavanya Rajamani

    (University of Oxford)

  • Rosalind Rickaby

    (University of Oxford)

  • Nathalie Seddon

    (University of Oxford)

  • Thom Wetzer

    (University of Oxford
    University of Oxford)

Abstract

The concept of net-zero carbon emissions has emerged from physical climate science. However, it is operationalized through social, political and economic systems. We identify seven attributes of net zero, which are important to make it a successful framework for climate action. The seven attributes highlight the urgency of emission reductions, which need to be front-loaded, and of coverage of all emission sources, including currently difficult ones. The attributes emphasize the need for social and environmental integrity. This means carbon dioxide removals should be used cautiously and the use of carbon offsets should be regulated effectively. Net zero must be aligned with broader sustainable development objectives, which implies an equitable net-zero transition, socio-ecological sustainability and the pursuit of broad economic opportunities.

Suggested Citation

  • Sam Fankhauser & Stephen M. Smith & Myles Allen & Kaya Axelsson & Thomas Hale & Cameron Hepburn & J. Michael Kendall & Radhika Khosla & Javier Lezaun & Eli Mitchell-Larson & Michael Obersteiner & Lava, 2022. "The meaning of net zero and how to get it right," Nature Climate Change, Nature, vol. 12(1), pages 15-21, January.
    • Handle: RePEc:nat:natcli:v:12:y:2022:i:1:d:10.1038_s41558-021-01245-w
    DOI: 10.1038/s41558-021-01245-w
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    References listed on IDEAS

    as
    1. Shaikh Eskander & Sam Fankhauser & Joana Setzer, 2021. "Global Lessons from Climate Change Legislation and Litigation," Environmental and Energy Policy and the Economy, University of Chicago Press, vol. 2(1), pages 44-82.
    2. Dikau, Simon & Volz, Ulrich, 2021. "Central bank mandates, sustainability objectives and the promotion of green finance," Ecological Economics, Elsevier, vol. 184(C).
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