Fossil fuels: The world's addiction and sectors not reducing it
While there have been significant changes in the energy industry and the electric vehicle market reducing the use of fossil fuels, three key sectors - aviation, shipping, and industry - are still far from reaching net zero emissions.
Uneven progress in reducing fossil fuel use
According to a new analysis, the world has made uneven progress in reducing its addiction to fossil fuels. Record levels of investment in clean energy and a decline in coal-powered generation mean that less and less of the world's power will come from fossil fuels by 2050.
Additionally, the electric vehicle market is expected to drive down emissions from cars and trucks, with a projected 50% drop in global oil consumption for on-road vehicles over the next 30 years.
Stubborn carbon pollution from aviation, shipping, and industry
Despite the progress in the energy industry and the electric vehicle market, emissions are still far from reaching net zero by 2050. This is primarily due to the ongoing carbon pollution from three key sectors: aviation, shipping, and industry.
The lack of widespread alternatives to jet fuel and ship diesel contributes to steady or increasing fossil fuel use in these sectors. Industrial processes such as cement-making and plastic production also fail to significantly reduce carbon-intensive fuels.
Long road ahead to break dependence on fossil fuels
While there have been successes in renewable energy and electric vehicles, breaking our dependence on fossil fuels in various aspects of our lives still remains a challenge. From turning on a light at home to driving a car to getting packages delivered or flying to a holiday destination, fossil fuel use persists.
Addressing climate change requires diverse policies and innovations across different sectors of the economy. It is a reminder that there is still much work to be done.
