Net Zero is one of the most important concepts we have today to balance our use of resources and environmental impacts to long-term sustainable levels. To tackle this massive task, Net Zero strategies emphasize taking a systems approach by considering the different aspects of sustainability as one cohesive whole, rather than as isolated parts. 

According to the Environmental Protection Agency (EPA), Net Zero strategies aim to address three interconnected goals:

• Net Zero Energy is consuming only as much energy as is produced through renewable energy sources, such as solar or wind.
• Net Zero Water is balancing water use with regional availability to prevent depletion.
• Net Zero Waste is eliminating solid waste being sent to landfills through reducing, reusing, and recycling.

You may also hear the term Net Zero used to refer to Net Zero Emissions, a related environmental goal. Net Zero Emissions is achieved when global carbon emissions are reduced to an amount that can be absorbed by natural and human measures, leaving zero new emissions in the atmosphere. This is another critical aspect of Net Zero, as reducing global greenhouse gas emissions is the only way to limit global warming to no more than 1.5°C, as called for in the Paris Agreement.

All four of these goals are deeply connected. For example, the best way to achieve Net Zero Emissions is to replace fossil fuels with renewable energy sources, which will also contribute to achieving Net Zero Energy. By considering these goals together, policy-makers, entrepreneurs, and individuals are able to design more effective and impactful climate solutions.

Net Zero may seem like an ambitious goal — in fact, it’s been called “one of the greatest challenges humankind has faced” — but it is achievable if we collaborate on a global scale. As of June 2024, 107 countries have adopted a Net Zero pledge. In addition, thousands of cities, companies, and other institutions have taken their own pledges through the Race to Zero initiative. Although, despite the positive trend indicated by these pledges, many questions remain about the specificity of these pledges and how they will be achieved.

You can contribute to Net Zero goals, as well. Since the most significant changes need to come from the government level, start by visiting the Climate Action Tracker at the “Action” link below to learn about your country’s emissions, environmental policies, and Net Zero pledges. Armed with that knowledge, you can now advocate for improved climate policy in your country and local area. In addition, you can reduce your personal impact by tracking your energy and water usage, reducing your waste production, tracking your carbon footprint, and offsetting your carbon emissions.