Embracing Our New Net Zero Era
As the fight against climate change continues, the impacts of global warming are as conspicuous as ever. I read an article recently by Vox’s Rebecca Leber that really resonated with me: “Climate disasters will happen everywhere, anytime.” Leber demonstrates how climate disasters used to follow seasonal rules, but increasingly don’t because of rapid intensification. And according to NOAA, in 2023 the U.S. set a new record for the number of billion-dollar disasters in a year at 23. With this growing global crisis, two prevalent concepts have emerged: “environmental justice” and “net zero.” While they may seem unassociated, they are very connected and are a union that promises equitable and fair solutions to climate change. That’s why I interned with the Global Network for Zero this summer – I wanted to explore this growing association, how it impacts people and the planet and how we can get to net zero.
The connection between net zero and environmental justice
Environmental justice is the principle that all individuals, regardless of race, ethnicity or socioeconomic status, have the right to live in a clean and safe environment. It also emphasizes community involvement in decision-making processes. Net zero’s carbon-balancing act strives to connect humans’ emissions and absorptions, while environmental justice vows that no one should bear the burdens of climate impacts.
Low-income neighborhoods, indigenous peoples and communities of color often face higher exposure to pollution and have less access to resources needed to combat the impacts of climate change. It is imperative to ensure that these communities are provided with opportunities at the same level.
Inclusivity is crucial to policymakers and stakeholders who craft net zero strategies. This involves actively engaging with communities that have faced environmental injustices and incorporating their perspectives into the decision-making process. Meaningful participation allows the identification of challenges faced by different communities and provides solutions to them accordingly. Investments in communities like these empower them to adapt to climate challenges, promote renewable energy access and support sustainable development. Additionally, supporting a green job market can create economic opportunities while advancing net zero goals.
Nivetha Subramanian
Our role in establishing a zero emissions world
During my time as an intern at GNFZ, I learned about GNFZ’s goal of a zero emissions world. Put simply, equitable policy design and implementation are crucial. And GNFZ’s decentralized, peer-to-peer net zero platform enables individuals and organizations at every level to accelerate their net zero journeys, including leaders from both business, AEC and traditional green building community, government and more. By working together and sharing resources and best practices, business and policy can better align to ensure that the benefits of a net zero world are shared by all and that no group is unfairly burdened by the transition's costs.
A net zero world is crucial to my generation – it not only can protect our future but positively impact so many lives. GNFZ recognizes this; that’s why their vision is lasting equitable and global living standards serving people and the planet. My generation’s impact on the net zero movement will be a powerful force for change. We're a generation driven by a sense of urgency to address climate change issues and create a sustainable future. Our persistent activism, use of social media for awareness and demand for eco-consciousness are pushing industries to adopt greener practices. We're challenging outdated norms and advocating for policies that prioritize the planet, aligning with net zero goals.
The transition to a net zero emissions future is essential for safeguarding the planet and future generations from the devastating impacts of climate change. However, this transition must be done with equity and environmental justice at the forefront. Through working with companies like GNFZ, who strive to create an equitable and sustainable world for everyone, an ideal future can be created for us as well as future generations.
Nivetha Subramanian is a Junior at Valley Christian Schools in San Jose, CA, interning at the Global Network For Zero over the summer of 2023. She’s interested in environmental sustainability and in building a better future for her generation, and would like to study environmental science and public policy after high school.