Climate change mitigation
Climate change mitigation
Climate change mitigation refers to the efforts and strategies implemented to reduce or prevent the release of carbon dioxide (CO2) and other greenhouse gases (GHG) into the atmosphere. It encompasses a range of actions aimed at mitigating climate change by limiting the concentration of GHGs and minimizing their impact on the Earth's climate system.
Mitigation plays a crucial role in addressing climate change and achieving global climate goals. By reducing GHG emissions and actively removing carbon from the atmosphere, it aims to limit the extent of global warming and minimize the impacts of climate change on ecosystems, economies, and human societies. It requires collective action from governments, businesses, and individuals to adopt sustainable practices and technologies that contribute to the rapid decarbonization of all sectors and promote a more sustainable future.
How do you mitigate carbon emissions?
Climate change mitigation involves various approaches, including:
Emission reduction
This focuses on reducing the amount of GHG emissions produced. It includes transitioning to cleaner and renewable energy sources, improving energy efficiency in buildings and industries, promoting sustainable transportation, and implementing regulations and policies that encourage emission reductions.
Carbon Capture and Storage (CCS)
CCS technologies involve capturing carbon dioxide emissions from power plants, industrial processes, or directly from the atmosphere, and then storing or utilizing it to prevent its release into the atmosphere. This helps to reduce the concentration of CO2 in the atmosphere.
Afforestation and reforestation
Planting trees and restoring forests are effective methods in mitigating carbon emissions. Trees absorb CO2 from the atmosphere during photosynthesis, acting as carbon sinks and storing carbon in their biomass.
Sustainable land management
Implementing sustainable agricultural practices, managing soil health, and protecting natural ecosystems like wetlands and peatlands can help sequester carbon and reduce GHG emissions associated with land use and agriculture.
Energy efficiency
Improving energy efficiency across sectors, including buildings, industry, and transportation, reduces energy consumption and consequently lowers CO2e emissions.
