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Innovating to net zero report says 2050 target is possible
“Innovating to net zero” a report published by Energy Systems Catapult.
The report states that net zero by 2050 is achievable. It is possible with support for innovation and scale up across low carbon technology, land use and lifestyle.
How were these results found?
Hundreds of pathways to net zero by 2050 were modelled. Different technologies and behaviour changes were tested in order to understand the best approaches to decarbonisation.
As a result, they found that no matter the pathway; innovation, incentives and investment across low carbon technology, land use and lifestyle are key to achieving net zero.
Furthermore, the pathways to net zero need to include deploying more/less combinations of:
- Low Carbon Technology (Carbon Capture & Storage Bioenergy, Hydrogen may need to grow to levels that equal today’s electricity, electricity generation will need to double)
- Land Use (Livestock production for dairy & meat may need to be cut by 50%, planting forests up to 50,000 hectares each year, biomass crops harvested regularly for energy)
- Lifestyle (Reduce meat & dairy consumption, slower aviation demand growth)
In addition, the report made 4 key policy recommendations:
- Innovation support for technologies such as nuclear, CCS and hydrogen
- Economic incentives to go low carbon
- Local area energy planning
- Reform of power markets
If you would like to read about the report in more detail, head over to Energy Systems Catapult.
