The 2015 Paris Agreement established the global ambition to “achieve a balance
between anthropogenic emissions by sources and removals by sinks of greenhouse
gases (GHG) in the second half of this century”. This is more commonly referred to as
“net zero GHG emissions”. To reach net zero targets, substantial gross emissions
reductions of over 90% across all sectors (transport, energy, waste, industry, AFOLU)
will be needed.

Realistically, only a small and limited amount of carbon dioxide removal (CDR)
defined as the removal and permanent storage of atmospheric carbon dioxide (CO₂)
in stable reservoirs – can be achieved. Nonetheless, CDR will have a crucial role in
counterbalancing residual emissions. Options include emerging negative emissions
technologies and practices (NETPs) that enhance natural processes or use novel
approaches. Each method spans a range of technological readiness, has potential
physical limitations, resource dependencies, adverse impacts, and co-benefits. Given
these trade-offs, as well as the challenges for storage permanence, liability for any
reversals, and limits to upscaling removals, a diverse portfolio is required; no one
technology or practice alone can address the challenge of removing the required
amount of CO₂ by 2050. Moreover, the risks that come with relying on one single
approach, or a small subset of approaches, must be minimised.

The handbook discusses a list of concepts relevant to CDR and explores six different
NETPs: biochar, biomass with carbon capture and storage (BioCCS), direct air capture
with carbon capture and storage (DACCS), terrestrial enhanced weathering,
afforestation and reforestation, and soil carbon sequestration. It is aimed at
policymakers, NGOs, journalists, and members of the public with an interest in CDR
policy making. As such, it seeks to provide a robust summary of the core principles,
concepts, technologies and practices underpinning CDR.

Read our joint Handbook with Carbon Market Watch below:

• Carbon Negative Handbook (pdf)

See more here.