We see net zero emissions pledges everywhere, but only 14 per cent of Australians actually understand what net zero means. Who could blame them? Since the Paris Agreement in 2015, the term “net zero” has been misused and misconstrued. This is largely because it was co-opted by the fossil fuel industry, which has exploited the “net” in net zero as a loophole to rely on carbon offsets rather than make genuine emissions reductions.

Three companies are actively trying to achieve “real zero” – Fortescue Mining, IKEA and Lendlease. Credit: Jamie Brown

Ultimately, net zero has become a benchmark for complacency, and it is failing us. If we want to maintain a liveable planet, we need businesses to commit to “real zero”. That isn’t a buzz phrase. It’s a climate goal that is exactly what it sounds like: phasing out fossil fuels to reach zero emissions as fast as possible without reliance on offsets – no asterisk and no “net”.

Why do we need it? The recent extension of the North West Shelf gas project in Western Australia is a classic example of how net zero enables greenwashing by fossil fuel companies – Woodside claims to be aiming for “net zero in our direct emissions by 2050″, while also expanding a fossil fuel project that is estimated to produce more emissions per year than those produced by Ireland. It does not even come close to passing the pub test, let alone a scientific assessment.

Net zero greenwashing is eroding public trust in climate action........

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