[Invited speech]Understanding carbon zero and how to achieve it

Understanding carbon zero and how to achieve it
ID:91 View Protection:ATTENDEE Updated Time:2024-10-15 16:20:15 Hits:45 Invited speech

Start Time:2024-10-20 14:40 (Asia/Shanghai)

Duration:20min

Session:[S5] Intelligent Coatings, Biological Coatings & Optical Coatings » [S5B] Session 5B

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Abstract
In the face of escalating climate change, achieving "Carbon Zero" or "Carbon Neutrality" has become a global imperative. Carbon Zero refers to balancing greenhouse gases emitted with the amount removed from the atmosphere, resulting in no net increase in atmospheric greenhouse gases (mainly carbon dioxide). This concept is central to global climate strategies, including the Paris Agreement, which aims to limit global temperature rise to well below 2°C, preferably 1.5°C, compared to pre-industrial levels. This presentation will explore the essential components of carbon zero and its pathways. Technological innovation, policy intervention, and societal shifts are essential to the transition toward carbon zero. Renewable energy sources such as wind, solar, and hydropower play a central role in reducing emissions, while energy efficiency improvements in industry, transportation, and buildings help lower demand. Carbon sequestration technologies, including reforestation and carbon capture and storage, are vital tools for offsetting unavoidable emissions. While challenges remain—such as financing large-scale renewable projects, transitioning high-carbon industries, and ensuring social equity—the journey toward carbon zero is vital for a sustainable future. By integrating technological innovation, regulatory measures, and behavioral shifts, it is possible to achieve a carbon-neutral world, thereby mitigating the worst effects of climate change. Non-trade barriers, including regulatory standards, certification requirements, and environmental regulations, are critical in driving the low-carbon transition. These barriers, though designed to protect the environment and public health, can present challenges to international trade by limiting the import and export of goods that do not meet new carbon-related criteria. However, these standards can also incentivize innovation and the adoption of greener technologies, further supporting the transition to carbon zero. Participants will gain insights into real-world examples of successful carbon-zero initiatives, examining both the opportunities and challenges.
Keywords
Speaker
Guodong Yuan
主任 Zhaoqing College (Guangdong), China

Dr. Yuan earned his PhD from the University of British Columbia, Canada. Following postdoctoral research in Japan, he joined Landcare Research in New Zealand, where he advanced to senior scientist and research leader. In 2013, he returned to the Chinese Academy of Sciences to mentor PhD students. Currently, he is a chair professor at Zhaoqing University, specializing in environmental protection and land resource utilization. He also spearheaded the creation of Guangdong Province's first minor degree program to cultivate practical expertise in carbon neutrality for the Guangdong-Hong Kong-Macao Greater Bay Area.
 

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