Decarbonise (/diːˈkɑːrbənaɪz/), also spelled as "decarbonize" in American English, refers to the process of reducing carbon dioxide emissions in order to combat climate change. The word is derived from the prefix "de-" meaning "remove" or "undo", and "carbon", referring to the element that contributes to greenhouse gases. The phonetic transcription of the word shows that it is pronounced as "dee-kahr-buh-nahyz", with emphasis on the second syllable. Decarbonising has become an important goal for individuals, businesses, and governments as society shifts towards a more sustainable future.
The term "decarbonise" refers to the process of reducing or eliminating the amount of carbon dioxide (CO2) emissions produced by a particular activity, industry, or system. It involves shifting from fossil fuel-based energy sources to cleaner and more sustainable alternatives. The aim of decarbonisation is to mitigate climate change, reduce the negative environmental impacts associated with carbon-intensive activities, and achieve a carbon-neutral or carbon-free economy.
Decarbonisation can be pursued across various sectors, including power generation, transportation, manufacturing, and agriculture. This can be accomplished through several measures such as increasing energy efficiency, adopting renewable energy sources (such as solar, wind, and hydro power), transitioning to electrified transportation systems, implementing carbon capture and storage technologies, and promoting sustainable land practices.
The process of decarbonisation is fundamental in addressing climate change and achieving the goals outlined in international agreements like the Paris Agreement. By reducing CO2 emissions, the concentration of greenhouse gases in the atmosphere can be stabilized, thus minimizing the potential for global warming and its associated impacts.
In summary, decarbonise can be defined as the deliberate action or strategy to significantly reduce or eliminate carbon dioxide emissions, especially by substituting fossil-fuel-based energy sources with cleaner and sustainable alternatives with the objective of combating climate change and promoting a greener and more environmentally-friendly world.
To deprive of carbon.
Etymological and pronouncing dictionary of the English language. By Stormonth, James, Phelp, P. H. Published 1874.
The word "decarbonise" is derived from the combination of two components: "de-" and "carbonise".
1. "De-" is a Latin prefix that means "from" or "remove". It is commonly used to indicate reverse or undoing actions.
2. "Carbonise" originates from the word "carbon", which comes from the Latin term "carbo" meaning "charcoal" or "carbonized material". The suffix "-ize" is derived from the Greek "-izo", used to form verbs indicating action or making something.
Together, "decarbonise" refers to the process of removing or reducing carbon or carbon dioxide from something, usually in the context of lessening greenhouse gas emissions or reducing carbon footprint.