Spanish Phrase
Tenemos que reducir las emisiones de carbono.
Meaning
This sentence states that we have an obligation to lower the amount of carbon that is released into the atmosphere. It emphasizes collective responsibility, often in the context of climate‑change discussions.
When to use
Use this phrase when talking about environmental policies, corporate sustainability goals, or personal commitments to fight climate change. It works in formal presentations, meetings, or casual conversations about green initiatives.
✦Grammar Breakdown
Tenemosquereducirlasemisionesdecarbono
Obligación con 'tener que'
The construction 'tener que + infinitive' expresses a duty or necessity, similar to 'must' or 'have to' in English.
Infinitive after 'que'
When 'tener que' is used, the verb that follows stays in its infinitive form (reducir).
Definite article with plural nouns
The article 'las' agrees in gender and number with 'emisiones', which is feminine plural.
Prepositional phrase 'de carbono'
The preposition 'de' links the noun 'emisiones' with the material 'carbono', indicating what is being emitted.
🗨In Conversation
Tenemos que reducir las emisiones de carbono para cumplir con el Acuerdo de París.
We have to reduce carbon emissions to meet the Paris Agreement.
Sí, podemos empezar usando energía solar y mejorando la eficiencia de nuestras fábricas.
Yes, we can start by using solar energy and improving the efficiency of our factories.
✕Common Mistakes
Tengo que reducir las emisiones de carbono.
Using singular 'tengo' changes the subject to 'I' instead of the collective 'we'.
Tenemos que reducir la emisión de carbono.
The noun should stay plural because emissions are multiple sources.
Tenemos que reducir las emisiones de carbóno.
The stress is on the first syllable; the correct word is 'carbono' without accent.
↔Alternatives
Debemos disminuir las emisiones de CO₂.
We must decrease CO₂ emissions.
Es necesario bajar la huella de carbono.
It is necessary to lower the carbon footprint.
Hay que recortar las emisiones de carbono.
We need to cut carbon emissions.
Cultural Tip
In Spanish‑speaking countries, environmental discourse often references international agreements like the Paris Accord (Acuerdo de París) and local initiatives such as "Energía Limpia". When discussing climate action, using collective pronouns (nosotros, nosotros mismos) signals shared responsibility and is well‑received in both formal and informal settings.