Author: Ugo Ibekwe

The term "carbon neutrality" implies that the net release of carbon dioxide gas into the air is zero. This can be otherwise stated as input=output i.e equalizing its removal and emission. Carbon is used extensively to fulfil our energy demands. Generation of carbon waste is inevitable and complete elimination of carbon is impossible. By what means can we ensure carbon emission is kept at a minimum?

The world produced a stunning 36.3 billion tonnes of CO2 in 2021. With the challenge of global warming in mind, the world is anticipating developing strategies which will minimize greenhouse levels. There are primarily two ways in which this net-zero emission can be achieved.

• Carbon offsetting: in this process, for every input of greenhouse gas, there is a drain. Such an arrangement allows for the elimination of greenhouse gas emissions. This ensures that their levels remain constant at all times.

• Reducing emissions: by turning to more sustainable forms of energy, the input of greenhouse gases is reduced. This reduces its load in the atmosphere and permits faster clearance of already present ones leading to a stable net-zero system. This would require structural changes in agriculture and industry through a search for low-carbon emitting alternatives.

Global progress in carbon neutrality

Achievement of carbon neutrality requires commitment and steadiness. Many countries have set 2050 as the time they wish to become completely carbon neutral. These countries include:

• Brazil

• United kingdom

• the United States

• South Africa

• UAE

• European Union

• Israel

• Japan

Several other countries have targeted earlier or later dates. 

• China (2060)

• India (2070)

• Russia (2060)

• Finland (2035)

• Germany (2045)

• Austria (2040)

Africa in the struggle for carbon neutrality

According to the CDP Africa report, The African continent contributes 3.8% of greenhouse emissions. With about 40% facing electricity unavailability, this goal seems to be a non-issue. Almost all African countries have not set a target for carbon neutrality. Governments would rather develop electrical systems without the carbon-neutral concept in mind. However, Africa is the most vulnerable to the effects of climate change and the emissions by other countries are more likely to affect the African continent. It has been suggested that since Africa contributes a relatively small amount of these pollutants, greater efforts should be undertaken by bigger contributors. It is far easier to attain carbon neutrality in smaller countries. Few countries (Bhutan, Panama, Suriname and some Pacific islands) have achieved this. This could be due to lesser population and energy demands. But is this an excuse for larger countries? No, it isn't.

Carbon neutral and renewable fuels

Developments and usage of energy sources called carbon-neutral fuels can help us achieve this goal. These fuels are renewable energy sources made by reacting CO2 with hydrogen yielding hydrocarbons. The concept is that CO2 is converted to a fuel (such as gas, gasoline and kerosene) which will be burnt to give back CO2. Renewable fuels reduce reliance on imported fuels, are cheaper and are perfect substitutes for fossil fuels. With significant progress ongoing and strong political will, it's more likely that carbon neutrality can be achieved within the next 50 years.