Fortescue's giant mining company has dismissed the "proven fantasy" brought by the net zero emissions goal by 2050 and has suggested another climate-friendly option.
As detailed by CNBC, CEO Andrew Forrest hopes to achieve 'real zero' in 2040 instead. Forrest is also urging business executives like him and politicians to address the climate crisis and let those who are ready to reduce carbon emissions do their activities.
Fortescue, ranking 4th in being the largest ore miner, will be planning to stop using fossil fuels within its Australia operations before the end of the decade.
READ MORE: Gold Mining Plan in Colorado Leaves Residents in Fear Due to Increased Pollution Risks
Net Zero vs Real Zero
According to the Green Business Bureau, net zero refers to the balance of carbon released into the atmosphere with the amount removed. Currently, 140 countries and counting, like the US and the EU, are setting their eyes on this goal. In the Paris Agreement, achieving net zero is achievable by limiting global warming to 1.5°C. Unfortunately, only rich countries can reach this goal in 2050 or sooner, while low-income countries will be delayed for a decade or more.
Now, real zero is emitting none, and technology is used to avoid burning all fossil fuels by the year 2040.
As one of the major polluters, the CNBC report showed that Fortescue will be stopping the use of all fossil fuels starting this decade to make the planet more livable and make it "a future which is inheritable, tolerable for your kids."
Over the years, scientists have called for immediate cutting of greenhouse gas emissions to prevent global warming. Warnings similar to this have grown louder this year, following its track to experience the hottest year ever in 2024, per Los Angeles Times. As Forrest said, extreme heat is primarily driven by the excess burning of fossil fuels by similar companies.
READ NEXT: US Mining Companies Rush to Secure Loans Over Fears of Trump's Potential Return and Block Funding
Join the Conversation