Net zero by 2050
In June 2021, the International Energy Agency (IEA) published a report, titled Net Zero by 2050: A Roadmap for the Global Energy Sector, outlining a viable path to net zero carbon emissions worldwide by 2050. The report warns that the path to net zero is “narrow” and would require an unprecedented transformation of how energy is produced, transported and used globally.
The report lays out over 400 milestones that must be met to achieve net zero by 2050. These include:
- No new investment in fossil fuel supply projects as of June 2021.
- No further investment decision for unabated coal plants.
- Ban on the sale of new internal combustion engine passenger cars by 2035.
- Net zero emissions target for global electricity sector by 2040.
- Annual additions of solar PV to reach 630 GW by 2030, and those of wind power to reach 390 GW.
- Ban gas boilers from 2025.
Fatih Birol, the IEA Executive Director, said in Electrical Review: “Our Roadmap shows the priority actions that are needed today to ensure the opportunity of net-zero emissions by 2050 – narrow but still achievable – is not lost.
"The scale and speed of the efforts demanded by this critical and formidable goal – our best chance of tackling climate change and limiting global warming to 1.5 °C – make this perhaps the greatest challenge humankind has ever faced.”
This article originally appeared on the ECA website under the headline, 'IEA maps "narrow" path to net zero'. It was published on 3 June 2021.
--ECA
[edit] Related articles on Designing Buildings
Featured articles and news
We're expanding our collaborative mission by launching DB Intelligence, an exclusive market research advisory panel. Built environment professionals can now get paid to share their expertise on industry trends, products and services.
Panel members receive direct financial incentives for participating in research projects like short surveys, 1-2-1 interviews and focus groups. Register today to shape the future of the construction sector.
Building Control Independent Panel final report
A precis of a key report led by Dame Hackitt with full recommendations and link to the government response.
Guide to ISO 19650 for Architecture Firms (2026)
A user gives their low down.
A UK training and membership provider for mould remediation professionals.
Building Safety recap April, 2026
A short and longer run-through of the month, with links to further information and sources.
CIAT May 2026 briefing.
Independent NSI and BAFE study exploring how organisations are changing the way they buy fire safety services.
From medieval scribes to modern word art.
ECA welcomes crackdown on late payment and push for clean energy, whilst CIOB seek fixed cladding removal timeframes.
Cyber Security in the Built Environment
Protecting projects, data, and digital assets: A CIOB Academy TIS.
Managing competence in the built environment
ITFG publishes new industry guide on how to meet the ICC principles.
The UK's campaign to reduce noise pollution: Mythbusting, articles and topic guides.