Net-Zero Emissions Goals: From Ambition to Action and Accountability

Net-zero has become a central pillar of global climate change policy efforts. This chapter explores what net-zero emissions targets are and how they differ from one another. It also examines criticisms of the net-zero approach and challenges pertaining to carbon dioxide removal strategies that are implicitly needed to achieve net-zero emissions. Next, it explores opportunities for emissions reductions. The chapter concludes with an exploration of how net-zero ambitions can be translated into action, underscoring the need for rigorous accountability mechanisms to maximize the chances of success.