net zero

[ net zeer-oh ]

noun

1. the condition of producing no more greenhouse gas emissions than are removed, reabsorbed, or offset: Compare gross zero ( def ).

   Our goal is net zero even if that is not yet precisely attainable.

adjective

1. Also net-zero. relating to, producing, or resulting in no overall increase in negative environmental impacts, such as energy consumption, greenhouse gas emission, or water use: Compare zero carbon ( def ).

   The possibility of achieving net zero emissions by 2050 remains affected by many uncertainties.

   Net-zero apartment buildings have become highly desirable in urban settings.

   Attracting investors is a major incentive for adopting a net-zero business model.

Word History and Origins

Origin of net zero¹

First recorded in 1985–90

Example Sentences

The science of net zero, developed over 15 years ago,* does not include these natural carbon sinks in the definition of net human-induced CO2 emissions.

From Science Daily

Natural sinks play a vital role to moderate the impact of current emissions and draw down atmospheric CO2 concentrations after the date of net zero, stabilizing global temperatures.

From Science Daily

Emissions accounting rules encourage this by creating an apparent equivalence between fossil fuel emissions and drawdown of CO2 by some natural carbon sinks, meaning a country could appear to have 'achieved net zero' whilst still contributing to ongoing warming.

From Science Daily

The authors call on governments and corporations to clarify how much they are counting on natural carbon sinks to meet their climate goals, as well as recognising the need for Geological Net Zero.

From Science Daily

A country like the UK, with large historical emissions and limited natural sinks, has implicitly committed other countries to maintain natural sinks for decades after UK emissions reach net zero.

From Science Daily