We are currently facing a climate emergency. Weather patterns are becoming increasingly unpredictable, and governments are striving for carbon neutrality. The goal is to hit net zero by 2050, so we can have a chance to limit global warming.
In the pandemic, carbon emissions dropped significantly around the world as people stayed home. As the world reopens, carbon emissions will begin to rise again, and the government will have to work much harder to reduce emissions by 7.6% every year.
The Net Zero goal requires immediate action and some drastic changes. The UK government amended the Climate Change Act in 2019 and committed to the 2050 net-zero goal. Although new policies have been introduced, the UK is not on track to meet its carbon budgets for the next ten years.
The UK recently announced a new ambitious target to reduce emissions by a staggering 78% by 2035. Here is how we can meet these ambitious targets and the ultimate net-zero goal.
Onsite power generation and battery storage
We need to reduce our reliance on the National Grid for energy. More businesses and homes need to start generating their own power and developing battery storage capability. Hopefully, this will give business owners more control over their energy consumption and contribute to the net-zero mission. There may also be a demand-side response where surplus energy can be sold back to the National Grid.
Switch to electric
Electric vehicles are already becoming more prominent in the UK. They are a fantastic step in decarbonising transport. Electric cars can be combined with alternative low-carbon methods, like renewable energy. Electric vehicles aren’t always practical for longer journeys, so there needs to be an eco-friendly alternative available.
Energy-efficient buildings
More buildings need to become ultra-energy-efficient or net zero. Modern homes tend to be more energy-efficient than older properties. Incorporate energy efficiency into your home and lifestyle to reduce your overall energy consumption.
Encourage greener ways of working
Businesses can reduce their impact on the environment with a few simple changes. Remote work stops people from commuting over long distances every day. Companies could place more recycling bins around and use recycled paper only. Think about what suppliers you use and whether they have eco-friendly values in place.
Dale McElveen, general manager of Milwaukee UK & Ireland, said: “Contractors require equipment that supports them in meeting client carbon emission targets as the industry moves towards net-zero, while ensuring they deliver their projects safely, on budget and on time. Our new range is designed to help businesses meet these priorities with a zero-emission operation, low running costs and reduced vibration exposure.”
Carbon capture and storage
CCS technology prevents a whopping 90% of carbon dioxide emissions made from fossil fuels from going into the atmosphere. It has a carbon-negative outcome, which is exactly what we need.