Originally published: February 2010 by TED · Recorded at TED2010
Why the World Must Get to Zero Emissions
In this TED2010 talk, Bill Gates explains why reducing carbon emissions is not enough: to stop warming, the world must bring emissions down to zero. Using a simple equation that links population, the services people use, the energy each service needs and the carbon intensity of that energy, he shows why the last factor has to reach zero. He calls for a wave of innovation in clean, affordable energy.
Key Takeaways
- Stabilising the climate requires net-zero emissions, not just reductions.
- Energy efficiency helps, but zero-carbon energy sources are essential.
- Innovation, investment and long-term thinking are needed to make clean energy cheap and reliable.
Why It Matters for ESG and Sustainability Management
The talk explains the logic behind net-zero commitments and emissions-intensity metrics that companies now disclose and set targets for. Learn how GreenCo helps companies build a credible pathway to net zero.
Turn Inspiration into Action with GreenCo
GreenCo is an ESG and climate risk advisory firm in Singapore and Hong Kong, trusted since 2016 by public and private companies and multinational companies. We have supported more than 80 listed companies with all-round ESG advisory under one roof, from strategy, materiality and sustainability reporting to GHG accounting, climate scenario analysis, ESG ratings and assurance. We can build your ESG framework from scratch, and our consultants stay actively involved throughout the whole project.
We use AI and digital tools to work faster, but AI is a tool, not the advice. The real value comes from our consultants' professional judgement: understanding your business, interpreting the rules, challenging the numbers and making sure every disclosure stands up to scrutiny.
Our Values
- Integrity – credible, decision-useful disclosures, prevent greenwashing.
- Partnership – hands-on involvement from day one to end of project.
- Tailored expertise – solutions built around your business.
- Knowledge sharing – making ESG regulations clear and accessible for everyone.
- Innovation – using technology to make sustainability work more efficient.
Our Team's Professional Credentials
- Fellow Certified Public Accountant (FCPA)
- Chartered Financial Analyst (CFA) – CFA Institute
- Financial Risk Manager (FRM) – Global Association of Risk Professionals (GARP)
- Certified ESG Analyst (CESGA)
- Sustainable Investing Certificate – CFA Institute
- GRI Certified Professional
- Practitioner Member – Institute of Sustainability and Environmental Professionals (ISEP)
- GRI Certified Sustainability Professional – Global Reporting Initiative (GRI)