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Decarbonization

Learn what decarbonization is, what is the role of the energy transition in reducing CO2 emissions, and how to put the low-carbon economy into practice.

Decarbonization: meaning and advantages of a low carbon economy

Fossil fuels have been the world's main source of energy for centuries. The problem is that the burning of these substances releases a large amount of carbon dioxide (CO2) into the atmosphere, which is highly polluting. This process contributes to global warming and even to the proliferation of respiratory diseases in the population.

The gases emitted by industries and vehicles powered by gasoline or diesel are very harmful to the environment and to people's health. Over the years and with the increase in pollution caused by these energy sources, there was a need for more efficient actions to improve this scenario.

What is decarbonization?

Decarbonization is when fossil fuels, which emit carbon dioxide, are replaced by renewable energy sources. It is the search for the reduction and, in the long term, elimination of CO2 emissions by companies and individuals.


Decarbonization of the electricity sector

Renewable energies, derived from natural resources, are the main allies in the decarbonization process. Using solar energy, for example, is one of the ways to invest in the carbon reduction regime and work for an increasingly sustainable future for the entire planet. This movement, combined with energy efficiency and investments in technology and innovation, are the basis for the low-carbon energy transition.

What are the benefits of the Energy Transition?

The transition to more sustainable energy sources is crucial to contain global warming to 1.5°C, which implies expanding the use of renewable energy and reducing the use of fossil fuels. In addition, it brings with it economic and social advantages, such as the creation of jobs, the reduction of pollution and the improvement of the quality of life.

According to a recent Accenture study, most companies around the world are struggling to achieve the goal of “Net Zero Emissions”. Only 18% of the 2,000 largest global organizations are on track to achieve this goal by 2050.

How to put decarbonization into practice?

As the main broadcasters, large companies play a fundamental role in the decarbonization process, but individuals can also do their part, since it is a process that aims to bring quality of life and well-being to everyone. Some important decarbonization actions:

Reduction of raw material waste: when a product is thrown away, such as a cup, whose manufacturing energy came from fossil fuels, all the CO2 emitted in its production is thrown away.
Increased efficiency in the industry: investment that avoids very high costs for raw materials (CO2) and energy.
Recycling: recycling a material emits much less carbon than producing a new one.

The challenges of decarbonization

Some factors are essential for an efficient low carbon economy, but there are still many challenges to achieve Net Zero:
  • High initial investment, however, in the long term, is cheaper;
  • For decarbonization to expand, new technologies are needed, especially in relation to engines;
  • There is a lack of knowledge about decarbonization, which generates little investment in the process;
  • It is necessary to make people aware to invest in and adopt a sustainable culture.

Neoenergia Shares

As one of Neoenergia's main strategies, the reduction of gas emissions permeates the company's path along its trajectory and aims to zero all levels by 2050. The company carries out a series of measures that reinforce and contribute to this mission. In line with the Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs), established by the United Nations (UN), among the focuses are SDG 7, aimed at ensuring reliable, sustainable, modern and affordable access to energy for all. SDG 13 is also one of those that stand out in the company, as it focuses on taking urgent measures to combat climate change and its consequences.

Check out some decarbonization initiatives carried out by Neoenergia:
  1. Wind Energy;
  2. Solar Energy;
  3. Electric mobility;
  4. Sustainability index certifications.
A protagonist of the energy transition in Brazil, Neoenergia also works in partnership with the Rock in Rio, The Town and Lollapalooza festivals, seeking to implement solutions for the decarbonization of musical events. The purpose of reducing CO² emissions in the music industry aims to engage young audiences and, above all, to mitigate the environmental impact in one of the largest entertainment segments.