You have probably heard about “net zero”. These two words can be found everywhere lately, from the news to social media and company reports.
But, what does “net zero” actually mean?
To unpack this concept in an easy-to-understand way, the United Nations University Institute for Advanced Study of Sustainability (UNU-IAS) has developed the “Net Zero 101: What, Why and How” e-course.
“Net Zero 101: What, Why and How” has been affiliated by UN CC:Learn and consists of three free and self-paced modules that take an average of 1:30h to complete. It provides a foundational understanding of climate change, the science behind it, and its impacts, while showcasing actionable steps one can take as a responsible citizen to contribute to climate action and achieve a net-zero society.
Here’s a few key information about the course.
What will you learn?
After completing the course, participants will be able to:
- Define what anthropogenic climate change is and link it with the concept of net zero.
- Identify UN organizations, key milestones and international treaties relevant to climate action.
- Analyze the environmental and socio-economic impacts of climate change. Explain the importance of a whole-of-society approach and the roles of different actors in achieving net zero.
- Describe the importance of contextualized measures to achieve net zero and determine sustainable and practical ways to reduce one’s carbon footprint.
- Select the most effective and viable renewable energy solutions considering their cost-effectiveness and sustainability given different contexts.
Who is this course for?
This e-course is meant for anyone who wishes to develop a foundational level of understanding of the basic sciences behind climate change, its environmental, social and economic impacts, and actions we can take as responsible citizens to achieve a net-zero society. You do not need a technical background in climate science to complete the course.
Will you get a certificate?
You will receive a certificate of completion from UNU-IAS once all of the following conditions have been met:
- Complete the three online lessons; and
- Score at least 75% on the quiz of each module.
UN CC:Learn Affiliation Programme
The course is made available on UN CC:e-Learn through the new UN CC:Learn affiliation programme, which highlights high-quality e-learning products on climate change developed by recognised institutions outside the framework of the UN CC:Learn programme / without support from the UN CC:Learn Secretariat, in accordance with specific affiliation criteria. The objective of the UN CC:Learn affiliation programme is to enhance global climate literacy through dissemination of high-level learning products that complement UN CC:Learn resources.