Many countries and companies have pledged to be carbon neutral by 2050 or soon after, however the path to such a scenario is littered with obstacles. Scientists have devised plans that outline how net-zero emissions can be reached by 2050. Some rely solely on renewable energy, as many environmentalists prefer, others lean on other technologies such as nuclear power or carbon capture. Each approach carries different social and economic trade-offs. However, most researchers agree that drastic changes in society and technological advancements are needed over the next decade to stay on pace for net-zero by the mid-century.