Moving Towards Carbon Zero

Written by Claire Shi

What Is Carbon Zero?

“Carbon Zero” has been a rising term, referring to a technique that addresses one of the most pressing global issues: climate change. “Carbon Zero” essentially means having carbon levels of net-zero, meaning that the amount of carbon released into the atmosphere is balanced by the amount of carbon that is removed.

Why Is Carbon Zero Important?

Given the current state of our planet’s climate crisis, this is an effective and necessary solution to adopt to prevent any further irreversible damage. As of now, statistical trends indicate a > 99.9% chance of one of the next five years becoming the warmest year on record, surpassing 2024. 

As a result of such increasing weather, many organisms, and soon ourselves, are diminishing at an alarming rate. According to Ecological Applications, there has been a 40 percent population decrease of polar bears in northeast Alaska and the Northwest Territories between the years 2001 and 2010.

If we, collectively as a planet, do not take action and prevent further damages now, the truth is that there will not be much more of it left in only a matter of decades. Thus, it is urgent that we give back to the environment that keeps us alive.

How can Carbon Zero be achieve?

There are many ways to achieve Carbon Zero by implementing certain actions both small and large-scale.

On a large-scale, larger companies can implement more sustainable practices, develop carbon-removal technologies (Direct-Air Capture), switch to sustainable energy sources rather than fossil fuels, and countless more.

As individuals, we can contribute to Carbon Zero by making sustainable choices. For example, we can work towards reducing our carbon footprint, supporting sustainable businesses, using public transportation, etc. 

However, the most important thing to do at this moment, is to advocate for sustainable lifestyles and share the word in our communities. With increased awareness, more and more individuals and organizations will put more emphasis on removing the carbon from our world.

Companies Taking Action

1. Microsoft

2. Google

3. Apple

4. Amazon

5. Maersk