Neutralisation

September 26, 2024Shantanu Singh

In relation to climate change and carbon accounting, neutralisation involves offsetting of the residual GHG emissions that cannot be reduced to zero through the removal of an equal quantity of CO₂ or other GHGs from the atmosphere. This is usually done by reducing to net zero or by investing in carbon capture and storage, meaning that they have no detrimental effect on the climate.

Understanding Neutralisation

The act of putting the emission sources in balance is known as neutralisation, which forms a part of the net zero emissions. Although the amount of emissions should be decreased to the lowest level possible some emissions are inevitable due to current technological or economical constraints. Neutralisation remedies these residual emissions by way of activities, which in a manner utterly neutralise its adverse impact.

Methods of Neutralisation

Carbon Offsetting: One of the most common methods of neutralisation involves purchasing carbon offsets, which fund projects that reduce or remove GHGs from the atmosphere. These projects can include reforestation, renewable energy installations, and methane capture.
Carbon Capture and Storage (CCS): This technology captures CO₂ emissions from industrial processes or power generation and stores it underground, preventing it from entering the atmosphere.
Reforestation and Afforestation: Planting trees and restoring forests are natural methods of neutralisation, as trees absorb CO₂ during photosynthesis and store it in their biomass.
Direct Air Capture (DAC): This emerging technology involves capturing CO₂ directly from the air and either storing it underground or using it in industrial processes, thereby neutralizing the emissions.

Importance of Neutralisation in Climate Strategies

Neutralisation is significant when it comes to net zero because it offers a mechanism for tackling emissions which cannot be eradicated outright. Organisations and governments thus have an opportunity to achieve their corporate obligations to lower the overall carbon footprint by partaking in neutralisation activities.

FAQs about Neutralisation

1. What is the difference between emission reduction and neutralisation?

Emission reduction is the direct reduction in the emission of greenhouse gases into the atmosphere while neutralisation makes up for the remaining emission through the removal of an equivalent amount of CO₂ or other GHGs from the atmosphere.

2. How does neutralisation contribute to achieving net zero?

Neutralisation plays a role in reaching net zero because there are some emissions that cannot be further reduced or eliminated, and neutralisation will balance the net emissions so that there are none.