Zero Island: making an island carbon neutral in one year
Together with our partners, we implemented them in the daily life of one island – making the island carbon neutral in just one year. The difference was significant: the island's carbon dioxide emissions decreased by 78 percent from the levels of 2018.
Sweden is aiming to become carbon neutral by 2045. We at Neste wanted to examine solutions that could make the ambitious target a reality. Zero Island is part of Neste’s Journey to Zero initiative which is the ultimate quest for a better future. Together with our partners, we want to bring forth solutions that drive the world towards a carbon neutral future, creating a healthier planet for our children.
Together, small changes can yield big results
"We want to show that small changes in everyday life can make a big difference to one's impact on the climate."
Olle and Hugo
Food
What we eat every day significantly affects our carbon footprint. Zero Menu, a sustainable low-emission menu designed by renowned chef Jonas Svensson is a delicious lesson in how food choices can help lower our carbon footprint. The Zero menu helps guests choose the sustainable alternative and reduces waste. Together with Neste, Olle and Hugo are also planning to grow more food on the island and are coming up with new ways to reduce waste.
Transport
Transport on the island runs on carbon neutral Neste MY Renewable Diesel™.
Energy
Buildings on the island have been fitted with solar panels, air water heat pumps, LED lights. Propane gas used for cooking has been replaced with biogas. The island has also switched to using green electricity.
Accommodation
Cabins on the island get electricity from solar panels, while air water heat pumps and climate curtains ensure energy efficiency. Guests can glamp out in Zero Cabin to experience climate neutral living.
Waste
Everything on the island is either reused or recycled. Food waste is processed into fertile compost for the organic potato field. The new recycling center ensures nothing is needlessly wasted.
Compensation
Everything possible has been done to make the island’s carbon footprint as small as possible. Compensation fees from Zero Island support the Barangay wind farm, a green electricity production project in the Philippines.