Carbon Budget

A Carbon Budget refers to the cumulative amount of carbon dioxide (CO₂) emissions permitted over a period to keep global temperature rise within a specified limit. It serves as a critical benchmark in climate science, helping policymakers, businesses, and individuals understand the urgency and scale of actions needed to mitigate climate change. The concept is rooted in the premise that there is a finite amount of carbon that can be emitted into the atmosphere without surpassing critical climate thresholds.

The idea of a Carbon Budget is integral to international climate agreements, such as the Paris Agreement, which aims to limit global warming to well below 2°C, preferably to 1.5°C, compared to pre-industrial levels. By tracking emissions against this budget, societies can allocate resources and implement strategies more effectively to transition towards a sustainable, low-carbon future.

Adhering to a Carbon Budget involves rigorous monitoring and substantial reductions in greenhouse gas emissions. Strategies can include increasing energy efficiency, adopting renewable energy sources, reforestation, and innovations in carbon capture and storage technologies. Managing our carbon budget is essential to avoiding the most severe impacts of climate change and ensuring a healthier planet for future generations.