what is “net” zero emissions? I understand the concept of gross vs net, just not in this instance.

Question

what is “net” zero emissions? I understand the concept of gross vs net, just not in this instance.

In: Earth Science

Answer 1

There are ways to remove carbon and other elements from the atmosphere. If you set up a system where you are still emitting something into the atmosphere, but you have a process for removing it from the atmosphere at an equivalent rate, then you aren’t contributing to increasing levels in the atmosphere overall and your emissions are “net zero.”