Carbon-Neutral - GCSE Physics Definition

Carbon-neutral refers to a state where the amount of carbon dioxide (CO₂) emissions produced by an activity, person, or organisation is balanced by an equivalent amount being removed from the atmosphere, resulting in no net increase in atmospheric CO₂ levels.

For GCSE Physics students, achieving carbon neutrality involves understanding how processes, like burning fossil fuels, release carbon dioxide and how this can be counteracted by methods such as planting trees, which absorb CO₂, or investing in renewable energy sources that produce less CO₂.

It’s an important concept in addressing climate change, as reducing CO₂ emissions helps minimise the greenhouse effect and global warming.