What is decarbonization?

Decarbonization refers specifically to the process of reducing carbon dioxide emissions, particularly in relation to heat and transportation. This entails transitioning away from fossil fuels, which are the primary source of carbon emissions, and adopting cleaner energy sources and technologies. The goal of decarbonization is to mitigate climate change by lowering the amount of greenhouse gases released into the atmosphere. It often involves improvements in energy efficiency, the adoption of renewable energy sources such as solar and wind, and the development of alternative modes of transportation that have a lesser environmental impact.

Other options do not correctly define decarbonization. Increasing carbon emissions or developing new fossil fuel sources stands in opposition to the principles of decarbonization, which aims to reduce such emissions. Planting trees can contribute to carbon absorption and is an important part of an overall climate strategy; however, it is not the same as decarbonization, which focuses more broadly on reducing emissions from all sectors, especially energy and transportation.