What do we mean by Net Zero?

Net Zero refers to a state in which the greenhouse gases going into the atmosphere are balanced by removal out of the atmosphere. The term net zero is therefore, important because this is the state at which global warming stops.

Net Zero is the internationally agreed upon goal for mitigating global warming in the second half of the century. On a global level, the IPCC concluded there is a need for net zero by 2050 to remain consistent with 1.5C temperature rise target set by the IPCC.

Knowsley has therefore, decided to play its part in reaching the national Net Zero target of 2050 as set by the Government, by setting a Net Zero target of 2040, 10 years ahead of the Government target.

The main greenhouse gas is Carbon Dioxide, and it is responsible for over 80% of global warming. Net Carbon Zero refers to achieving an overall balance between carbon emissions produced and carbon emissions taken out of the atmosphere.

In 2022 the Council Published the Net Zero Delivery Plan, identifying which actions need to be taken to reduce carbon emissions from Council estate and services.