Net Zero Framework & Scopes3 / 12
What Net Zero Means (Reductions + Offsets)
Net zero = residual emissions balanced by removals/offsets; not 'net neutrality'.
10 min read · Jacob Willis, Net Zero Lead · Last reviewed July 2026
"Net zero" is widely claimed but often poorly understood. A credible net-zero commitment means something specific - deep emissions reductions, with only a limited residual balanced by removals. Understanding what net zero genuinely means is essential to setting a credible target.
In this lesson
- 01What net zero means
- 02Reduction versus offsetting
- 03Removals versus avoidance offsets
- 04Net zero versus carbon neutral
- 05Science-based targets
- 06A credible net-zero target
- 07The definition as foundation
- 08Sources and further reading