Nettonollscenarier

Nettonollscenarier, often translated as "net-zero scenarios," are pathways or projections that illustrate how a society, sector, or the entire planet can achieve a state of net-zero greenhouse gas emissions. This means that the amount of greenhouse gases released into the atmosphere is balanced by the amount removed from the atmosphere. Achieving net-zero is widely considered a critical goal to limit global warming to acceptable levels, typically 1.5 degrees Celsius above pre-industrial levels, as outlined in international climate agreements.

These scenarios typically involve a combination of strategies. A primary focus is on deep and rapid reductions in emissions across all sectors, including energy, industry, transport, agriculture, and buildings. This entails transitioning away from fossil fuels towards renewable energy sources like solar and wind power, improving energy efficiency, electrifying transport and industrial processes, and adopting sustainable land use practices. Alongside emission reductions, net-zero scenarios also account for the removal of greenhouse gases already in the atmosphere. This can be achieved through natural carbon sinks, such as forests and oceans, or through technological solutions like direct air capture and carbon capture and storage.

Various organizations, including the International Energy Agency (IEA), the Intergovernmental Panel on Climate Change (IPCC), and numerous research institutions, develop and analyze net-zero scenarios. These scenarios provide crucial insights for policymakers, businesses, and researchers, informing climate policy development, investment decisions, and technological innovation. While the overarching goal is net-zero, the specific pathways and timelines can vary significantly depending on assumptions about technological progress, policy implementation, and societal choices. Understanding these scenarios is fundamental to charting a course towards a sustainable and climate-resilient future.