Carbon in an electrified future: Technologies, trade-offs and pathways

Electrification will drive the global transition to net zero, powering cleaner industries, homes and transport. But even in a world where electricity dominates, carbon molecules will play a remaining role in producing essential fuels and materials. Managing this finite resource wisely – by sourcing sustainably, maximising reuse and recycling, and ensuring responsible end-of-life storage – is crucial to creating a balanced and resilient carbon system.

Achieving net zero is not about eliminating carbon entirely, but rather about transforming how we source, use and manage it at end-of-life in a highly electrified, sustainable energy and materials system.

The path to net zero will require navigating complex trade-offs between technology readiness, cost, energy use, and environmental impact. Progress will depend on overcoming systemic barriers through coordinated policy, robust carbon pricing, and investment in infrastructure and innovation.

Ultimately, the world faces a double challenge: minimising the amount of new carbon entering the system, while ensuring all the remaining carbon is sourced, used, and managed at end-of-life in harmony with both nature and society.