Forbes.com, February 5 2023
Leading The Charge On Climate: Carbon Removal's Role In Achieving Net Zero
– Michael Sheldrick
The world is making progress in reducing carbon emissions, largely due to Russia’s invasion of Ukraine and the rise in funding from measures like the Inflation Reduction Act. But, to achieve net zero emissions, equal focus must also be given to carbon removal efforts. However, the question remains whether stigma and complacency will hinder progress.
Many of us have likely heard the urgent warnings from national leaders and scientists that the next two-three years are crucial in averting the disastrous effects of climate change. According to reports, global carbon emissions must peak by 2025 and decrease by at least 50% by 2030 to prevent temperature increases exceeding 1.5 degrees. The International Energy Agency (IEA) predicts this goal is achievable, partly due to increased investment in renewable energy resulting from Russia’s invasion of Ukraine.
Despite the potential for progress on curbing emissions however, the IPCC, the UN body that provides scientific information on climate change, has repeatedly stressed that attaining net zero emissions by 2050 necessitates not only reducing emissions but also investing in carbon removal technologies and methods. This is highlighted, for instance, in Chapter 12.3 of the IPCC’s April 2022 report.
