Zero-Carbon Industry: Transformative Technologies and Policies to Achieve Sustainable Prosperity

Industrial activity is a major emitter of climate pollution, responsible for one-third of human-caused greenhouse gas emissions. This book provides a roadmap for the zero-carbon industrial transition, highlighting breakthrough innovations and policies to decarbonize manufacturing and spur investment.

Format: Hardback
Length: 400 pages
Publication date: 27 February 2024
Publisher: Columbia University Press

The power sector and transportation often take center stage in discussions about climate change, but there is another significant contributor to climate pollution that requires attention: industry. Globally, industrial activity accounts for one-third of human-caused greenhouse gas emissions. While industry plays a crucial role in producing the tools needed to combat climate change, such as wind turbines, solar panels, and electric vehicles, it also contributes to climate pollution.

Eliminating climate pollution from the industrial sector while supplying transformational technologies is a complex challenge. This book offers a groundbreaking roadmap for the zero-carbon industrial transition, highlighting innovative solutions transforming the manufacturing sector and the policies that can accelerate this global shift. Author Jeffrey Rissman delves into the workings of heavy polluters like steel, chemicals, plastics, cement, and concrete, examining ways to decarbonize manufacturing affordably. These include electrifying industrial processes, utilizing hydrogen, implementing carbon capture and storage, and enhancing material efficiency through lightweighting and 3D printing.

However, technologies alone are not enough. Enacting the right policies is essential to spur investment and expedite emissions reductions. These policies encompass financial incentives, research and development support, well-designed carbon pricing, efficiency and emissions standards, and green public procurement. Rissman provides a framework to ensure that the transition to clean industry enhances equity, health, and prosperity for communities worldwide.

Zero-Carbon Industry is an engaging and comprehensive guide to decarbonizing the vast global industrial sector. It sheds light on the overlooked contributions of industry to climate change and provides practical solutions for a sustainable future. By addressing the challenges and opportunities presented by industry, we can work towards a more sustainable and resilient planet.

Weight: 764g
Dimension: 160 x 238 x 32 (mm)
ISBN-13: 9780231204200