ClimateAugust 17, 2026
decarbonize
dee-KAR-buh-nyze
Definition
To reduce or remove carbon dioxide emissions from an industrial process, economy, or energy system.
Etymology
The word is a modern formation created by combining the prefix 'de-' (meaning 'off' or 'away') with 'carbon' and the suffix '-ize' (meaning 'to make or become'). It emerged in the late 20th century to describe the transition away from fossil-fuel-based energy sources.
In the news
The article describes the dilemma of governments attempting to decarbonize their economies while balancing the economic challenges of competing with China's dominant green technology industry.
Trying to compete with China could slow global climate action, report warns
Read the full article ↗Phys.org