Understanding Net Zero: Implications and Opportunities for the Global South

International agreements such as the Paris Agreement aim to limit global warming to well below 2°C, with a push towards achieving Net Zero. This goal is is critical for mitigating the impacts of climate change and ensuring a sustainable future.

The Global South, encompassing regions in Latin America, Africa, Asia, and Oceania, are characterised by economic and social diversity. Environmental challenges in these regions include deforestation, pollution, and vulnerability to climate change impacts like extreme weather and sea-level rise.

Climate change disproportionately affects the Global South, with extreme weather events, rising sea levels, and agricultural disruptions. Achieving Net Zero can mitigate these impacts by stabilising global temperatures and reducing the frequency of climate-related disasters. Additionally, the Global South plays a crucial role in global climate solutions through vast natural resources and potential for renewable energy development.

However, achieving Net Zero in the Global South presents a number of challenges, including gaining economic resources, adequate infrastructure, and sufficient access to advanced technologies. Funding can be a significant barrier, as many countries in these regions rely on external financial and technical support to implement sustainable practices.

Despite the challenges, there are numerous opportunities and benefits for the Global South in pursuing Net Zero. Green jobs and industries can boost economic growth. The Global South has the potential to innovate and lead in sustainability, leveraging its unique resources and circumstances.

Several initiatives in the Global South have successfully moved towards Net Zero. For instance, Costa Rica has made remarkable progress in the field of renewable energy, with a goal to achieve carbon neutrality by 2050. The nation captured global attention in 2015 when it successfully generated 100% of its electricity from renewable sources for 75 consecutive days. Currently, Costa Rica consistently sources approximately 99% of its electricity from renewable energy. Egypt is advancing its climate change initiatives through the National Initiative for Smart Green Projects (NISGP) aimed at promoting diverse green projects and attracting international finance. Additionally, Egypt is tapping into green financing by issuing its first green bonds, aligning with global sustainable investment trends.

Certification of renewable energy can play an important role in ensuring that emissions reductions and sustainability practices meet global standards and are transparently reported. This verification provides a clear metric for both progress and accountability, encouraging more stringent adherence to environmental goals. Certification can aid significantly by working closely with local businesses and governments to establish clear standards and benchmarks for sustainability.

At GCC, we are the global leader in renewable energy certification. Our world-leading certification of activities, including I-RECs for renewable electricity production, C-Capsule for durable carbon dioxide removal, and Fly-i for aviation fuel derived from renewable feedstocks, enable customers to trust the environmental integrity of their purchases.

Achieving Net Zero is more than an environmental target; it's a route to a sustainable and resilient future for the Global South, and also worldwide. Discover how our certification services can assist in reaching Net Zero goals by contacting info@gcc.re.