Planet Earth could be 2.7 degrees warmer by the end of the century according to some estimates.
This is leagues above the globally agreed Paris target of well below two degrees Celsius or preferably 1.5.
Many big emitters are saying we can reach this target through something called renewable energy certificates, but recent research has found these certificates have low integrity across the board.
Read more: Renewable energy certificates might not be honest
Dr Sophie Calabretto talks to Cosmos Magazine journalist Ellen Phiddian how renewable energy certificates work and why in some cases they aren’t reducing emissions at all.
The Science Briefing is a LiSTNR production
Listen to more episodes of The Science Briefing
Originally published by Cosmos as Renewable energy certificates: why they are falling short
Cosmos
Cosmos is a quarterly science magazine. We aim to inspire curiosity in ‘The Science of Everything’ and make the world of science accessible to everyone.
Read science facts, not fiction...
There’s never been a more important time to explain the facts, cherish evidence-based knowledge and to showcase the latest scientific, technological and engineering breakthroughs. Cosmos is published by The Royal Institution of Australia, a charity dedicated to connecting people with the world of science. Financial contributions, however big or small, help us provide access to trusted science information at a time when the world needs it most. Please support us by making a donation or purchasing a subscription today.
