The following is a list of recently coined phrases related to climate change along with their definitions. If you come across any others, please mention them in class and they can be added to this list.
ULEZ (Ultra Low Emission Zone):
ULEZ refers to a specific area in a city where only vehicles that meet stringent emissions standards are allowed to enter. The goal of ULEZ is to reduce air pollution and greenhouse gas emissions by encouraging the use of low-emission or zero-emission vehicles within the designated zone.
15-Minute Cities:
The concept of a 15-minute city envisions urban planning and development that aims to create neighbourhoods where residents can access most of their daily needs, such as work, schools, healthcare, groceries, and recreational activities, within a 15-minute walk or bike ride from their homes. This idea aims to reduce the reliance on cars and promote more sustainable, localised living.
Carbon Neutrality:
Carbon neutrality, also known as net-zero emissions, refers to the state where an individual, organization, or entire region/country balances the amount of greenhouse gases emitted with an equivalent amount of greenhouse gases removed or offset. This is achieved by reducing emissions and investing in carbon removal or offsetting projects, such as reforestation or carbon capture technologies.
Circular Economy:
The circular economy is an economic model that seeks to minimize waste and maximize the use of resources by promoting the continuous reuse, repair, and recycling of products and materials. This approach aims to reduce the consumption of finite resources and decrease the environmental impact of production and consumption processes.
Blue Economy:
The blue economy involves sustainable economic activities that harness the potential of the ocean and its resources while ensuring conservation and protection of marine ecosystems. This concept focuses on using the ocean's resources responsibly to promote economic growth, job creation, and sustainable development.
Carbon Pricing:
Carbon pricing involves placing a monetary value on carbon emissions to create financial incentives for individuals and businesses to reduce their greenhouse gas emissions. This can be done through carbon taxes or cap-and-trade systems, which encourage the transition to low-carbon technologies and practices.
Climate Resilience:
Climate resilience refers to the ability of communities, systems, and infrastructure to withstand and recover from the impacts of climate change. Resilience strategies include building infrastructure that can withstand extreme weather events, developing early warning systems, and implementing adaptive measures to minimise the vulnerability to climate-related risks.
Nature-Based Solutions:
Nature-based solutions (NBS) involve using natural ecosystems, such as forests, wetlands, and green spaces, to address climate change and environmental challenges. NBS include activities like afforestation, reforestation, and wetland restoration, which help sequester carbon, enhance biodiversity, and provide ecosystem services.
Just Transition:
The just transition concept recognises the need for an equitable and fair shift to a low-carbon economy. It emphasises the protection of workers and communities that may be affected by the transition away from fossil fuels, ensuring that they have access to alternative livelihoods and social support during the process.
Green Bonds:
Green bonds are financial instruments issued by governments, organizations, or companies to raise capital specifically for environmentally friendly and sustainable projects. These bonds finance initiatives such as renewable energy projects, energy efficiency improvements, and climate adaptation efforts.