Direct Air Capture

As an increasing number of countries make net zero pledges, the focus of decision makers has shifted to how to turn these pledges into clear and credible policy actions and strategies. To date, very few countries and companies have developed detailed strategies or pathways to achieve their net zero goals. One example is California (United States), which in November 2022 updated its carbon neutrality plan to include targets for carbon removal, prompting the introduction of new legislation aiming to expand California’s carbon removal capacity.

A critical question for all countries is the extent to which net zero strategies will need to rely on CDR approaches alongside direct emission reductions. DAC and other CDR approaches are part of the portfolio of technologies and measures needed in a comprehensive response to climate change. Promoting transparency and planning for the anticipated role of CDR in net zero strategies can support the identification of technology, policy and market needs within countries and regions while supporting public understanding of these approaches.

Additionally, more work is required to differentiate emissions reductions and avoided emissions from carbon removals to align with scientific recommendations. This should be incorporated in climate targets and policy, and reflected in the establishment of different credit categories for carbon markets for effective climate action.