decarbonize

Decarbonize is a verb referring to the process of reducing carbon dioxide and other greenhouse gas emissions associated with a system, activity, or region. In policy and business contexts, decarbonization denotes moving away from fossil fuels toward low- or zero-carbon energy and practices, with the goal of achieving substantial emission reductions or net-zero emissions by mid- to late-century targets.

Approaches to decarbonization include electrification of end-use sectors using low-carbon electricity, improvements in energy efficiency, and switching fuels to less carbon-intensive options (such as green hydrogen or biofuels). Additional measures involve expanding low-emission or carbon-free power generation, increasing energy storage, and applying carbon capture, utilization, and storage (CCUS) to reduce residual emissions. Nature-based solutions and afforestation can contribute to decarbonization in the land-use and agricultural sectors. Demand-side measures, including building codes and efficiency standards, also play a significant role.

Decarbonization targets are assessed through metrics such as carbon intensity (emissions per unit of energy or GDP) and total greenhouse gas emissions. The term is widely used in national climate strategies, corporate sustainability reporting, and international frameworks such as the Paris Agreement, which supports countries pursuing net-zero goals by around mid-century. Decarbonization is distinct from carbon neutrality, which aims for net-zero climate effects, often combining emission reductions with offsets or removals.

Sectoral scope typically covers power generation, transportation, industry, buildings, and land use. Examples include transitioning to renewable electricity, electrifying transport, decarbonizing heavy industry with CCUS or low-carbon fuels, and improving building efficiency. Challenges include upfront costs, infrastructure needs, reliability, supply chain constraints, and policy or equity considerations. Progress is measured by emissions reductions, energy intensity, and the share of clean energy in the economy.