In the era of globalization and industrialization, decarbonization is emerging as a key agenda item worldwide, presenting both challenges and opportunities. But what exactly is decarbonisation and why is it so essential for industry and society as a whole?
Decarbonisation is the process of reducing or eliminating emissions of carbon dioxide (CO2) and other greenhouse gases that contribute to climate change. This is an important and topical initiative globally due to concerns about global warming and climate change caused by human activities, especially the burning of fossil fuels (such as coal, oil and natural gas). In addition to the environmental benefits, decarbonisation also offers economic and social advantages, the opportunity for innovation and the development of new technologies, as well as improving the health and well-being of societies.
In the context of sustainable development, decarbonisation not only encompasses the transition to clean energy, but also promotes business models that actively reduce the carbon footprint and encourage sustainable production and consumption. It represents a combination of technological innovation, changes in management and business strategies, and the development of policies and regulations aimed at a low-carbon future.
Production of electricity
Decarbonising electricity is key to reducing CO2 emissions. As the population grows and electrification increases, a shift to renewable sources is necessary. Solar and wind energy prices have dropped significantly, but energy storage and maintaining grid stability are challenges. Incentive programs and innovations such as CO2 capture play an important role in this process.
Industry
Decarbonisation of industry is essential as the production of steel, cement and chemicals requires high temperatures and generates large CO2 emissions. To achieve decarbonisation, processes must be converted, integrated and electrified with renewable energy. Carbon sequestration is also an important part of the solution.
Social perspectives
A clear example of the social component of ESG and decarbonisation is the improvement of the quality of life in areas affected by industrial activity. Adopting green technologies and practices can reduce health risks for communities exposed to industrial emissions. An example of this could be China’s transition to cleaner forms of energy in a number of cities, which aims to reduce health impacts on citizens and improve air quality.
Political leadership and regulation
An example of political leadership and regulation in the context of governance could be the European Union, which with the establishment of the Green Pact for Europe clearly underlines its commitment to sustainability and decarbonisation. Creating legislative measures that incentivise sustainable practices and investment in green technologies shows that regulations can play a key role in the transition to a low carbon economy. To achieve decarbonisation, all aspects of the economy need to change – from how energy is generated and how we produce and deliver goods and services to how agricultural land is managed. The carbon dioxide and methane emissions that are warming the planet come largely from the electricity generation, industry, transport, buildings and agriculture and land use sectors of the global economy, so all of these sectors need to be transformed.