Worldwide Net Zero Carbon Emission Commitments
Greenhouse gases (GHG) are gases that trap heat in the atmosphere, thickening the Earth’s atmospheric blanket. Although GHG is usually in the form of carbon dioxide, it also takes the form of methane, nitrous oxide and fluorinated gases. Refer to the pie chart below to see the breakdown of each GHG in the atmosphere.
Carbon dioxide enters the atmosphere through burning fossil fuels, solid waste and trees, and as a result of certain chemical reactions like cement production. Methane is emitted during the production and transport of coal, natural gas and oil. Nitrous oxide is emitted during agricultural land use and industrial activities, combustion of fossil fuels and solid waste, and the treatment of wastewater. Fluorinated gases are produced from a variety of household, commercial and industrial processes like electrical transmissions and the production of aluminum.
The lengthy supply chains, energy-intensive production methods and significant industrial wastewater pollution in fashion production make the industry responsible for 10% of annual global carbon emissions.
What is Net Zero?
Net zero means cutting GHG emissions to as close to zero as possible, with any remaining emissions re-absorbed into the atmosphere. Because of the way that emissions warm the atmosphere, it is vital to achieve net zero to avert the worst impacts of climate change and preserve a livable planet. This can be achieved, but only with a complete transformation of production, consumption and transportation across the world.
The Global Effort
More than 70 countries, including the biggest polluters (China, the United States and the European Union) have set emissions targets, covering about 76% of total global emissions. The current goal to keep global warming to no more than 1.5 degrees Celsius, as called for in the Paris Agreement, is to reduce worldwide emissions by 45% by 2023 and reach net zero by 2050.
While fashion production regulations have not been officially implemented in the United States, any chance of achieving net zero by 2050 means that related laws are coming soon. Ayana Active will remain ahead of the curve by following our sustainability pillars as outlined in previous discussions and continuing to educate ourselves on the harmful effects of our craft when done irresponsibly.
Stay tuned for more exciting updates from Ayana Active as we continue to redefine the boundaries of fashion, sustainability, and empowerment. Follow us on Instagram @ayanaactive.