Achieving net-zero emissions for the planet is just one step away.

By FATEMA YASMIN 

Net-zero emissions can be achieved by limiting all emissions released by human activities characterized by industrialization, the persistent clearing of land for

agriculture, and unabated population growth stands as the principal catalyst behind Earth's pervasive and extreme climate fluctuations. This threatening arc poses a potent threat to global stability, pushing temperatures extremely

close to a tipping point rising by more than 1.5°C. Removing carbon from the atmosphere is the only way to counterbalance this by the carbon removal process. To achieve the goal set in the Paris Agreement of limiting global warming to no more than 1.5°C. We must reduce emissions by 45% by 2030 and achieve

net zero emissions by 2050 However, the urgency of the matter is emphasized by the persistent discussions and calls for action that emerged from the 28th Conference of the Parties (COP28), which was held from November 30 to December 12, 2023, in Dubai. The latest report from the UN

Environment Programme (UNEP) reveals that the international community is still significantly deviat- ing from the Paris goals. So, achieving a net-zero world presents one of humanity's most significant challenges, necessitating a complete overhaul of our production methods, consumption patters, and modes of trans- portation. The energy sector, currently accountable for roughly three- quarters of greenhouse gas emissions, plays a pivotal role in preventing the most severe conse- quences of climate change. Substituting polluting coal, gas, and oil-fired power with renewable sources like wind or solar power would lead to a substantial decrease

in carbon emissions. An increasing alliance of countries, cities, businesses, and various institutions is committing to attain net-zero emissions. Presently, over 9 countries, including major emitters such as China, the United States, and India, have formulated net-zero emissions targets. Numerous regions, cities, and companies have also set their net- zero objectives. All countries need to reach net-zero emissions at the same time. Nevertheless, the commit- ments made by govemments thus far fall substantially

short of the necessary actions. The current plans put forth by 193 countries in the Paris Agreement would cause a significant increase of almost 11% in global greenhouse gas emissions by 2030, com- pared to the levels in 2010. To achieve the goal of net- zero emissions, it is crucial for all goverments, espe- cially the major emitters, to enhance their commitments and take immediate and decisive actions to redice emis. sions. Essentially, there is a need for stronger and more

immediate efforts to combat climate change. Achieving net-zero emissions requires swift transforma- tions across all global systems. Current efforts to phase out unabated coal are significantly off course and must accelerate six times faster by 2030. Additionally, the world must put a stop to deforestation and enhance tree

cover at a rate twice as fast by 2030. To achieve a carbon-neutral society within the next 30 years profound shifts are necessary in technology, behavior, and markets. Substantial investments and innovative financial tools are essential to implement large-scale renewable energy initiatives and create new technologies for enhancing energy efficiency, carbon capture, and carbon storage. Achieving this thoroughly entails a two-pronged strategy. Initially, reducing

human-caused emissions to nearly zero is imperative. Subsequently, employing direct air capture and storage (DACS) becomes crucial, actively extracting carbon from the atmosphere. Direct air capture (DAC) employs chemical reactions to extract carbon dioxide while

allowing other components of the air to continue. We need to adopt the Net Zero Programme which will incorporate our core principles of comprehensive carbon footprinting annual verification and certification, effec- tive strategy setting, employee engagement and training and expert communications support. Addressing the cli- mate crisis does not depend solely on national leaders. everyinhabitant of this planet from every comer of this world is responsible for playing a pivotal role in achiev- ing global net zero emissions by 2050. The planet cannot tolerate delays, excuses, or greenwashing. We need to follow IPCC or IA net zero greenhouse gas emissions

modeled pathways that limit warming to 1.5. Furthermore, we also need to draw our focus on food systems which cause about a third of greenhouse gas emissions. We need to take urgent action in four areas of food systems which include Protecting natural ecosys- tems, improving food production at the farm level, decar- bonizing food supply chains and demand-side dietary

changes. Govemments can easerevolutionary action plans by reforming aid and support, tax schemes. Food waste can be reduced by using renewable energy and developing novel foods that cut down carbon emissions. Every citi- zen can change their lifestyles to consume food for envi- ronmental sustainability and carbon reduction. The future of the next generation is in our hands. What will happen in the next decade we have to decide through our actions A perfect strategic policy and economic plan- ning can change consumer behavior regarding food habits that will expedite their transition away from 

fossil fuel.


Senior Human Resource Manager at Uttara Crescent Hospital, 

Dhaka, Bangladesh. Former Lecturer at Southeast University;

 Dhaka, Bangladesh.