ClimateJuly 4, 2026

decarbonization

/diˌkɑːrbənaɪˈzeɪʃən/

Definition

The process or policy of reducing and eventually eliminating carbon dioxide emissions from a society's energy systems, typically by transitioning to cleaner energy sources.

Etymology

The word is a derivative of 'carbon,' from the Latin 'carbo' (coal), combined with the prefix 'de-' (indicating removal) and the suffix '-ization' (the process of becoming). It emerged in modern environmental discourse to describe the transition away from carbon-intensive energy economies.

In the news

In this article, the term refers to state-mandated targets and programs designed to shift Massachusetts away from fossil fuels. Several Senate amendments either support funding for these transition efforts or aim to roll back the state's existing legal requirements to achieve them.

Energy policy pressure points reflected in amendments

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