6.3.2—Decarbonization
- Syllabus
- First assessment 2026
- Objective
- 6.3.2
- Level
- HL
Treat Net Zero as a Balance, Not Zero Activity
Decarbonization reduces or ends CO2-emitting energy use and replaces it with renewable energy. Carbon neutrality or net zero balances any remaining emissions with removals inside a stated boundary.
Prioritize absolute cuts through efficiency, electrification, renewable substitution and demand change. Then test residual removals for permanence, leakage, scope, timing and offset dependence.
A company cuts 80 tonnes but emits 20; it needs 20 tonnes of durable verified removal for net zero under the stated boundary.
States set different target dates, so compare boundary, interim gross reductions, renewable replacement and the credibility of residual removals.
Net zero is a balance condition; it does not license unlimited ongoing emissions.