Often, we hear the term "decarbonization" when talking about the fight against global warming. Decarbonization refers to efforts to reduce carbon dioxide emissions, which account for a large proportion of greenhouse gas emissions, to zero. A society that has moved beyond using carbons is called a "decarbonized society.
In October 2020, Japan declared its goal to become carbon neutral, meaning to reduce excess greenhouse gas emissions to zero by 2050. The terms "decarbonized society" and "carbon neutral" effectively mean the same thing.

The phrase "zero carbon dioxide emissions" is better understood as being "virtually zero”, because it is currently impossible to achieve zero carbon dioxide emissions. In practice, it means that when carbon dioxide emissions are subtracted from the amount of carbon dioxide absorbed by forests and oceans, we should achieve "virtually zero" emissions.

In order to realize a decarbonized society, it is important to reduce carbon dioxide emissions as much as possible. The amount of carbon dioxide absorbed by forests and oceans is limited, and, as we have learned, the amount that nature can absorb is approaching its limit. Therefore, we need to start taking action to reduce carbon dioxide emissions as soon as possible, and not just by 2050. To do this, we need to review our lifestyles and choose products that contribute to the creation of a decarbonized society. This means, switching from fossil fuels to renewable energy, utilizing green power sources such as solar, wind, and biofuels, sustainable fashion, electric and plug-in hybrid vehicles, and so on. Making these lifestyle choices will allow anyone to help reduce carbon dioxide emissions.

episode 16
What is "Decarbonization" or "Carbon Neutral"?