The journey to Net Zero is a strategic imperative for organizations seeking long-term resilience and relevance. Yet, persistent myths can stall progress and create unnecessary barriers. Let’s set the record straight:

Myth 1: Net Zero Means Zero Emissions

Fact: Net Zero does not mean eliminating all emissions entirely; it means balancing emissions by drastically reducing them and offsetting only the unavoidable remainder.

• According to the International Energy Agency (IEA), even with full implementation of current net zero pledges, about 22 billion tons of CO₂ emissions would remain globally in 2050, meaning complete elimination is not currently feasible.
• Net Zero requires deep cuts in emissions, combined with scaling up removals such as carbon capture and storage or natural sinks, to achieve a balance.
• The IEA pathway to net zero by 2050 involves reducing fossil fuel use from nearly 80% of total energy supply today to just over 20% by 2050, showing the scale of reduction needed.

Myth 2: Net Zero Is Only About Carbon Dioxide

Fact: Net Zero targets all major greenhouse gases (GHGs), including methane, nitrous oxide, and fluorinated gases, across multiple sectors.

• The Kyoto Protocol covers a range of GHGs, and credible net zero targets address all these gases, not just CO₂.
• Methane emissions from fossil fuel supply are targeted to fall by 75% over the next decade through abatement technologies, reflecting the importance of gases beyond CO₂.
• Agriculture, industry, and energy sectors all contribute significant non-CO₂ emissions that must be addressed in net zero strategies.

Myth 3: Net Zero Is Too Expensive and Will Hurt the Economy

Fact: The costs of inaction are far greater, while transitioning to Net Zero can drive innovation, economic growth, and resilience.

• The IEA estimates that upfront spending of around USD 600 billion is needed by 2030 to halve emissions intensity in oil and gas operations, a significant but manageable investment to limit warming to 1.5°C.
• The global economy in 2030 is projected to be 40% larger than today while using 7% less energy, showing that decoupling growth from emissions is achievable.
• Studies show that failing to act on climate change risks severe economic damages, whereas Net Zero transition creates new jobs, markets, and competitive advantages.

Myth 4: Net Zero Is Only for Big Corporations and Governments

Fact: Everyone has a role—from individuals and small businesses to communities and large corporations.

• Net Zero targets now cover about 88% of global GHG emissions through national commitments, but also include over 1,400 states, regions, cities, and nearly 1,000 publicly listed companies.
• Small businesses and individuals contribute through energy efficiency, sustainable consumption, and local initiatives, all integral to achieving collective goals.
• The Race to Zero campaign emphasizes immediate action across all sectors and scales, reinforcing that Net Zero is a shared responsibility.

Core Areas of Action

1. Carbon Foot printing and Lifecycle Assessment

Engineering consultancies must quantify their operational and project-based carbon footprints. This forms the foundation for setting science-based targets and understanding high-impact interventions.

2. Sustainable Design and Retrofitting

Designing buildings and infrastructure with energy modeling, passive design, and efficient systems helps drastically reduce emissions over a project’s lifecycle. Retrofitting legacy assets also offers massive carbon savings.

3. Energy Transition Projects

Consultancies can lead in renewable energy integration, grid decarbonization, and electrification of transport and industrial processes — enabling systemic change.

4. Smart Infrastructure and Digital Twins

Leveraging digital tools like BIM, IoT, and digital twins allows real-time performance monitoring and optimized energy management.

Collaboration Across the Supply Chain

Engineering firms must influence and collaborate with suppliers and contractors to use sustainable materials, reduce construction waste, and adhere to circular economy principles

 Real-World Impact

From retrofitting existing buildings for energy efficiency to designing net-zero-ready infrastructure, engineering solutions are at the forefront of climate action. These efforts not only reduce emissions but also enhance operational resilience, lower costs, and build stakeholder trust.

Join the Movement

The transition to Net Zero is a collective journey. By dispelling myths, sharing knowledge, and showcasing real-world solutions, we can accelerate meaningful climate action—together.

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