Around 7–9 billion tonnes of CO2 per year must be removed from the atmosphere by mid-century for meeting the 1.5°C target of the Paris Agreement, according to a recent Oxford report.
The 2024 State of Carbon Dioxide Removal (CDR) report, co-led by researchers at the University of Oxford notes that CDR efforts remove just 2 billion tonnes of CO2 annually, predominantly through conventional methods such as tree planting. Novel methods, including biochar, enhanced rock weathering, direct air carbon capture and storage (DACCS), and bio energy with carbon capture and storage (BECCS), contribute a mere 1.3 million tonnes per year. Even more concerning is that effectively permanent methods account for only 0.6 million tonnes per year.
CLIMATE ; NOVEL METHODS OF CDR
Innovative CDR methods hold promise but are still in nascent stages. Techniques like biochar and DACCS are being explored but have yet to achieve significant scale. The limited deployment and current policies highlight the need for accelerated research, development, and investment in these emerging technologies.
CLIMATE ; THE IMPORTANCE OF DIVERSE CDR METHODS
The report emphasizes the necessity of diversifying and rapidly scaling up CDR methods to address climate change effectively. Although there has been notable growth in CDR research, public awareness, and start-up companies, a slowdown in development across multiple indicators is evident. This stagnation poses a risk to meeting the ambitious targets set by the Paris Agreement.
Investment in CDR is crucial but currently lacks sufficient support. Government policies and proposals to scale CDR are minimal, comprising only 1.1% of investment in climate-tech start-ups. According to Dr. Steve Smith of the University of Oxford, increasing investment in both CDR and zero-emission solutions is imperative given the current trajectory towards decarbonisation.
CLIMATE ; CHALLENGES AND RECOMMENDATIONS
CDR companies have set high ambitions, but these goals lack credibility without stronger policy support. The report calls for governments to implement policies that will create a sustainable demand for carbon removals, including embedding CDR strategies into Nationally Determined Contributions (NDCs) and improving monitoring, reporting, and verification systems.
Governments have a decisive role in fostering a supportive environment for CDR. Policies must incentivize diverse CDR methods rather than focusing solely on conventional approaches. Dr. Oliver Geden from the German Institute for International and Security Affairs advocates for a robust strategy that includes a variety of CDR methods to enhance resilience against climate impacts.
EXPERT INSIGHTS ON SUSTAINABLE CDR
Matthew J. Gidden from IIASA highlights that delaying emissions reductions exacerbates the future need for mitigation. Sustainable CDR can only play a limited role if significant emissions reductions are postponed. This underscores the dual necessity of immediate emissions cuts and CDR scaling.
Dr. Stephanie Roe from WWF stresses that all climate mitigation efforts, including CDR, must be sustainable. The report indicates that scenarios with higher emissions reductions necessitate less CDR overall. Integrating environmental and social sustainability into CDR planning and policy is vital for minimizing risks and maximizing co-benefits.
The 2024 State of Carbon Dioxide Removal report reveals the urgent need to scale up CDR efforts to meet the Paris Agreement targets. While current removal rates and novel methods show promise, significant challenges remain. Governments, researchers, and the private sector must collaborate to develop robust policies, increase investments, and ensure the sustainable deployment of diverse CDR methods. The path to a sustainable, net-zero future hinges on immediate and coordinated action.
FAQS
What is Carbon Dioxide Removal (CDR)?
CDR refers to methods that remove CO2 from the atmosphere and store it permanently, thereby reducing the overall concentration of greenhouse gases.
Why is CDR important for meeting the Paris Agreement targets?
CDR is crucial because reducing emissions alone may not be sufficient to limit global warming to 1.5°C. Removing excess CO2 from the atmosphere helps achieve net-zero emissions.
What are some novel CDR methods?
Novel methods include biochar, enhanced rock weathering, direct air carbon capture and storage (DACCS), and bio energy with carbon capture and storage (BECCS).
What challenges does CDR face?
Challenges include insufficient investment, limited government policies, and the need for technological advancements to scale novel methods effectively.
How can governments support CDR?
Governments can implement policies that create demand for CDR, integrate CDR into national climate plans, and improve monitoring and verification systems.
