Master the Three Rs—Reduce, Remove, Reflect: Your Key Strategies to Combat Global Warming

Since 2019, the UK has aimed for net zero greenhouse gas emissions by 2050. This target supports international efforts to limit global warming to well below 2°C, ideally to 1.5°C, as outlined in the 2015 Paris Agreement.

These goals encourage diverse climate actions categorized into three areas: reduce, remove, and reflect. Recently, these approaches were discussed in the UK Parliament, highlighting their importance.

My team and I found that while various climate interventions can help, we urgently need more research. The goal of reducing emissions is crucial and must happen rapidly and deeply to keep global warming below 2°C. The energy sector is a significant player here, responsible for almost 75% of greenhouse gas emissions. Therefore, transitioning from fossil fuels to renewable energy is vital. This transition includes improving energy efficiency and electrification.

Greenhouse gas removal also plays a key role. It aims to eliminate historical emissions and balance out emissions from sectors that are slower to transition, like shipping and aviation. Many experts believe we need different methods for carbon removal to meet net zero targets effectively. Traditional methods such as reforestation are critical, but innovative approaches need to be developed quickly.

New methods for carbon capture, such as direct air capture, face challenges regarding their effectiveness and potential environmental impacts. If we want to achieve net zero and combat global warming, it’s essential to address these challenges head-on.

Climate change impacts are increasing faster than our ability to respond. Each year, the chance of exceeding 1.5°C and 2°C of warming grows, posing significant risks to our planet and society. This underscores the need to evaluate how we can reflect sunlight, another strategy in our climate toolkit.

Sunlight reflection techniques have garnered interest as a potential quick fix for global warming. The UN Environment Programme has explored these methods, stating they might cool the planet quickly but shouldn’t replace mitigation efforts. These techniques, like stratospheric aerosol injection, could help reflect sunlight back into space, much like natural processes do.

However, there are many uncertainties regarding these methods, from their impact on climate to ethical considerations. Without a global regulatory framework, any approach we take must be based on solid science and informed decision-making.

To meet climate goals, we need collective action across all sectors. While reducing emissions is still the priority, we must also consider methods for removal and reflection responsibly. The balance of risks and benefits needs careful assessment.

Before we finalize our approach, let’s ensure every option — reduce, remove, and reflect — is thoroughly examined.

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