Full Title: The Pathway to Industrial Decarbonization
Author(s): Mike Williams, Auburn Bell
Publisher(s): Center for American Progress
Publication Date: October 26, 2022
Full Text: Download Resource
Description (excerpt):
According to the latest report released by the Intergovernmental Panel on Climate Change, global greenhouse gas (GHG) emissions must peak by 2025 to limit global warming to 1.5 degrees Celsius above preindustrial levels. Every year of continued carbon pollution increases the peak temperatures that will be inflicted on the planet, threatening environmental degradation and social upheaval that can never be undone. The industrial sector is currently responsible for nearly one-third of global carbon emissions and 30 percent of U.S. emissions. By 2030, it will be the largest source of domestic emissions. Just three industries—iron and steel, chemicals, and cement-making—account for roughly 55 percent of global industrial emissions, and the top 10 industries are responsible for roughly 90 percent of global industrial emissions. Industry also supplies core materials and transformational technologies and supports high-quality, union jobs. Above all, most parts of modern-day society function because of heavy industry. To tackle the climate crisis and reach net-zero emissions by 2050, it is imperative that the United States remove emissions from industrial operations. This is why decarbonization must be a priority.