It is increasingly important for consumers to know that companies are ecologically responsible, that is, aligned with the Paris agreements, so that they are responsible for clearly communicating their commitment to sustainability. To achieve this goal, it is necessary to understand the jargon of the carbon footprint, since it is essential to use it correctly.
To help you properly draft your green strategy or commitment, here is a list of key terms to know.
Carbon neutrality (carbon neutral)
Carbon neutrality is achieved when carbon emissions are offset by the same amount of carbon reduction from the atmosphere. This reduction does not include carbon compensation for mitigation in some other field. However, many companies now use this term in an offsetting context and there are numerous providers of ‘carbon neutrality’ certificates that purchase that label – on changing and often non-transparent terms.
Zero net energy (net zero)
In contrast to carbon neutrality, the definition of zero net energy also includes neutrality of other greenhouse gases such as methane or nitrogen oxide. Net zero energy has become the lens through which many governments and businesses look at decarbonization. For example, the German government aims to reach zero greenhouse emissions by 2045.
Carbon offset
Compensating (Carbon offsets) is the path to zero net energy, since it finances CO2 mitigation in a more global way than the values of a specific company. Support renewable energy and energy efficient projects. These projects accelerate the transformation towards a low-carbon society. During a transition period, offsetting can be part of a company’s strategy towards net zero energy. In fact, it must be a complement, but not a substitute for more demanding emission reduction measures to achieve the Paris objectives.
Climate neutrality (climate neutral)
The term is commonly used as a proxy for carbon neutrality, but actually covers considerably more scope. It should include all company activities that have an effect on the global climate, including water and land use. Since virtually all human actions have an effect on the climate, true climate neutrality is impossible to achieve. The term is not protected and is often used simply for carbon offsetting without validating it with the Paris agreement.
