Carbon neutrality, a global challenge
Carbon neutrality : understanding a major challenge
Carbon neutrality is now a central objective of global climate policy. This concept is not simply an aspiration: it is at the heart of international commitments.
The Paris Agreement, signed by nearly 200 countries, and the European Green Deal make carbon neutrality by 2050 a binding objective for the European Union. This goal is in line with the scientific framework established by the IPCC, which states that in order to limit global warming to below 1.5°C to 2°C (the threshold at which the consequences of climate change become severe and difficult to contain), global CO₂ emissions must reach net zero around the middle of the 21st century.
Achieving carbon neutrality requires a profound transformation. It is necessary to reduce emissions, develop solutions to significantly increase carbon absorption capacity, and also change our modes of production, development and consumption in order to sustainably reduce our carbon footprint. This includes the preservation and expansion of natural sinks, but also technological innovation in CO₂ capture.
The European Union has set itself an ambitious goal : to achieve carbon neutrality by 2050, involving rapid and profound transitions in all economic sectors.
Key drivers for achieving carbon neutrality
Several levers have been identified in order to achieve this ambitious goal :
- Reducing emissions at source : The top priority is to reduce the consumption of fossil fuels (coal, oil, natural gas) in all sectors : energy, transport, industry, and construction.This requires a transition to renewable energies such as solar, wind and hydro power. But it also involves adopting more moderate consumption patterns and using innovative processes to decarbonise heavy industries.
- Calculate and understand your impact : Establishing a carbon footprint is the first step for any organisation that wants to reduce its emissions: it allows you to accurately measure where emissions come from (direct or indirect) and where to focus your efforts. This assessment can be carried out using recognised methodologies (such as the Bilan Carbone® method) to determine the impact over the entire life cycle of a product or activity.
- Carbon sinks and sequestration : Although reducing emissions is essential, it is not enough on its own to achieve carbon neutrality. We must also increase carbon absorption capacity through natural sinks such as forests, oceans and soils. We must also explore technological sequestration solutions, which are still in their infancy but are considered an essential complement.
The role of infrastructure in emissions
In the debate on carbon neutrality, attention often focuses on power stations, industry or transport. However, urban infrastructure itself generates a significant proportion of indirect greenhouse gas emissions.
Energy-intensive infrastructure by design and an often underestimated footprint
Roads, cycle paths and pedestrian areas require permanent equipment to function, secure and illuminate spaces. Street lighting is a prime example of this. Even when optimised (LEDs, presence detection, dimming), night-time lighting relies on: a continuous power supply, extensive cabling networks, poles, masts and electrical cabinets, and regular maintenance (replacement, inspection, servicing). These elements not only involve constant energy consumption, but also a carbon footprint linked to the manufacture, installation and maintenance of the equipment.
Night-time lighting accounts for a significant proportion of local authorities' energy consumption. At the regional level, this means recurring energy costs, indirect emissions linked to electricity production and dependence on heavy infrastructure.
In a context where local authorities need to drastically reduce their emissions, every item counts.
Rethinking the model
The question is no longer just about optimising what already exists, but about rethinking the need itself.
Solutions such as LuminoKrom®, which enable lighting without power supply, wiring or maintenance, make these transformations possible.