Carbon removal actors join Climeworks-initiated statement calling for a clear distinction between reductions and removals

To maximize our chances of limiting global warming to 1.5°C above pre-industrial levels, global greenhouse gas emissions must be reduced at an unprecedented speed over the next decades: CO₂ emissions must decrease by at least 90% by 2050 according to the SBTi. In addition, carbon dioxide removal (CDR) solutions are needed to neutralize any residual emissions and thus enable the world to achieve net zero CO₂ by 2050.

In line with what climate science states, Climeworks published a statement in April 2023 calling for a clear distinction between emissions reductions and carbon dioxide removal - in climate pathways, target setting and industry standards. It can be accessed here.

While Climeworks initiated the statement, it became clear that it addresses a topic relevant to the broader carbon removal ecosystem. This is why Climeworks reached out to further carbon removal actors, including project developers, associations and companies, to unite their voices and become part of a joint statement, which, to date, has more than 80 supporting organizations and individuals. You can access the statement with all supporting actors as a PDF here and below:

Reductions and removals have different roles to play

Separating emissions reductions and avoiding emissions from carbon removals is needed to align with scientific recommendations. This should be incorporated in climate targets, and climate policy and reflected via the establishment of different units/credit categories for (voluntary) carbon markets for effective climate action.

1. Limiting the moral hazard
   It presents a simple way to mitigate the moral hazard coming with carbon dioxide removals, as it makes for greater clarity over the role, foreseen share, and timing of removals alongside accelerated emissions reduction.

2. Adding integrity to carbon markets
   It adds further integrity to carbon markets and climate policy, as it allows for clarity and aligns with best practices concerning "net-zero", where carbon removal credits need to be singled out to counterbalance residual emissions.

3. Responsible deployment
   It provides a framework wherein carbon removals can be deployed in a responsible and just manner, in addition, and complementary to vast and rapid emission reductions and avoidances.

4. A question of scale
   CDR urgently needs a dedicated framework with opportunities to scale the entire sector, as well as guardrails against a deployment that is incompatible with global sustainability objectives. A dedicated CDR framework allows us to tackle these aspects in the most effective way.

In summary, it presents a scientifically sound framework to deliver on the temperature targets set within the Paris Climate Accord.