Which statement correctly defines net zero and how it is achieved?

• A. Net zero is achieved by reducing energy demand only.
• B. Net zero is achieved by emissions reductions alone with no removals.
• C. Net zero means total energy consumption is zero.
• D. Net zero means balancing remaining anthropogenic emissions with removals; achieved via emission reductions, decarbonization, CCS/CCU, and nature-based removals.

Answer: (D)

Net zero means balancing the amount of greenhouse gases we add to the atmosphere with the amount removed, so there is no net increase. Since some emissions are hard to eliminate entirely, the remaining ones must be offset by removals. This is why the best statement says net zero is achieved by balancing remaining anthropogenic emissions with removals, using a mix of emission reductions, decarbonization, carbon capture and storage/utilization, and nature-based removals like forests or soil carbon. It’s not about making total energy use zero, and it isn’t achievable by reductions alone without any removals.