While reducing near-term emissions is crucial, Carbon Dioxide Removal (CDR) solutions play a critical role in tackling the excess CO2 already in the atmosphere. These solutions help keep global temperature rise within the 1.5°C target by addressing the limited carbon budget. CDR involves two essential steps:
- Capturing carbon dioxide from the atmosphere.
- Storing the captured carbon in ways that prevent it from being re-released into the atmosphere for long periods.
CDR solutions are divided into two main categories:
Nature-Based Solutions
These approaches enhance natural processes to increase carbon uptake, such as by restoring forests, wetlands, or improving land management practices. Nature-based solutions combine both the capture and storage of CO2 within the natural carbon cycle.
Technological Solutions
These solutions use advanced technologies to capture carbon dioxide and then store it in geological reservoirs or long-lived materials. This method separates the capture and storage processes and often requires infrastructure for deep underground storage or carbon conversion technologies.
Both nature-based and technological CDR approaches are necessary for managing excess atmospheric carbon and supporting long-term climate goals.
