MY Thought on Net Zero: A Race Against Time & What It Means for Everyone

Net Zero: A Race Against Time & What It Means for Everyone

1. Introduction

• Net zero refers to balancing greenhouse gas emissions with removal efforts, reducing a country’s or company’s carbon footprint to zero.
• This is crucial for mitigating climate change and ensuring a sustainable future.
• Achieving net zero by 2050 (or sooner) is critical to limiting global warming and preventing climate disasters.
• However, as of 2025, progress remains slow, and without urgent action, the consequences will be severe.

2. Global Net Zero Status: Where Do Countries Stand?

2035 Climate Targets & Net Zero Commitments as on 07-02-2025

• 12 countries have submitted a 2035 NDC target (Nationally Determined Contributions).
• Only 1 country has aligned its target with the 1.5°C pathway.
• 181 countries have yet to submit a 2035 target, signalling a lack of urgency, & India is one of them
• Among analyzed nations, 55 (including the EU-27) have yet to declare their 2035 climate plans.

3. India’s Net Zero Compliance: Progress & Gaps

Government Actions Driving Change

• 500 GW non-fossil energy target by 2030.
• Green Hydrogen Mission for Cleaner Industrial Processes.
• Carbon Markets & ESG Reporting to improve corporate accountability.

Key Roadblocks

• Coal Dependency: The power & manufacturing sectors still rely heavily on fossil fuels.
• Lack of Mandatory Regulations: Unlike developed nations, India does not have strict net-zero disclosure rules.
• Greenwashing Risks: Some companies make climate promises without real action plans.

4. Why Should the Common Man Care?

Failure to meet net-zero targets will have serious consequences for everyday life:

A) Extreme Weather Will Become the New Normal

• More deadly heatwaves, unpredictable monsoons, and frequent floods will disrupt lives.
• Food and water will be scarce and expensive.

• Crop failures due to extreme weather will push food prices higher.
• Water shortages will hit cities and villages alike.

B) Health Risks Will Skyrocket

• Pollution will lead to more respiratory diseases and heart problems.
• Heat-related illnesses and new diseases (like dengue) will become widespread.

C) Economic Instability & Job Losses

• Industries that fail to transition to clean energy could collapse, leading to unemployment.
• India’s agriculture and small businesses will struggle to survive climate disruptions.

D) Higher Electricity & Fuel Bills

• Fossil fuel prices will rise as global demand shifts to renewables.
• Delaying the clean energy transition means higher household costs.

5. The Path Forward: What Can We Do?

For Governments & Companies

? Enforce stricter regulations to ensure transparency in net-zero targets.

? Invest in renewable energy, green hydrogen, and carbon capture.

? Phase out coal and fossil fuel subsidies to promote cleaner alternatives.

For Individuals

Reduce energy consumption—switch to LEDs, and use less electricity.

Support eco-friendly businesses & choose sustainable products.

Advocate for better climate policies—raise awareness and demand action.

6. Final Thought: A Collective Responsibility

• Net zero isn’t just a corporate goal—it’s about securing a livable future for everyone.
• The world is falling behind, and the consequences will hit the common person the hardest.
• The next decade is critical. If governments, businesses, and individuals do not act now, the cost of inaction will be far greater than the investment in a cleaner future.

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The question is—will we wait for disaster to strike, or will we push for change today?