Introduction

In today's rapidly changing climate landscape, the need for effective carbon removal strategies is more pressing than ever. In our latest podcast with Elisabeth Harding, we delve into the recent developments in EU policy surrounding carbon dioxide removal (CDR) and discuss the implications for businesses and the environment.

Elisabeth, who serves as the policy manager at the Negative Emissions Platform, gave us insights into the EU's commitment to carbon removal. The organisation represents various technologies such as direct air capture, bioenergy with carbon capture, and marine carbon removal. As Elisabeth explained, the EU is increasingly focusing on not just the policies at the EU level but also on national levels where significant advancements can be made.

"We have to be going to negative emissions if we want to have a stable and habitable planet for generations to come."

- Elisabeth Harding, Policy Manager at the Negative Emissions Platform

TL;DR

• The EU Scientific Advisory Report on Carbon Dioxide Removal (CDR) outlines nine key recommendations for policy improvements.

• There’s a strong need for separate targets for gross emissions reductions and carbon removals.

• The Clean Industrial Deal aims to boost the EU’s clean tech industry amid global competition.

• Integration of carbon removal into the EU’s Emissions Trading System (ETS) is essential for creating demand.

• Public-private partnerships and funding initiatives are crucial for advancing carbon removal technologies.

The EU Scientific Advisory Report

One of the main topics we explored was the recent EU Scientific Advisory Report on CDR. This report, developed over two years, offers a scientific foundation for advancing carbon removal technologies. It outlines nine key recommendations across policy, carbon markets, and governance.

The report also highlights the need for building CO2 infrastructure, which is critical for transporting and storing captured carbon. Elisabeth pointed out the importance of integrating carbon removal into the ETS, which covers a significant portion of the EU's economy. This integration is crucial for creating a demand signal for carbon removal technologies.

"The proof is in the pudding, and now it's really up to the EU to take this forward in the climate law."

- Elisabeth Harding

Implications of the Clean Industrial Deal

As part of our conversation, we also discussed the Clean Industrial Deal, which aims to position the EU as a leader in clean technology while addressing competitiveness concerns. The deal outlines various initiatives to support hard-to-abate industries in decarbonizing their operations.

With the establishment of the Industrial Decarbonization Accelerator Act, new opportunities are emerging to drive demand for carbon removal, particularly in challenging sectors that are traditionally hard to decarbonize. Elisabeth expressed optimism that these policies will help build a more robust market for carbon removal technologies.

Looking Ahead

As the demand is projected to rise, it has become clear that the next few years will be pivotal for carbon removal in the EU. Companies and stakeholders in the carbon removal space need to prepare for upcoming compliance markets and engage with the evolving policy landscape. Elisabeth emphasised the importance of starting small, encouraging companies to begin purchasing carbon removals to build experience and confidence ahead of more stringent regulations.

With the groundwork being laid now, it’s an exciting time for those invested in climate action. The consensus on the need for carbon removal is growing, and the focus is shifting from “if” to “how” and “when” these technologies will be integrated into broader climate strategies.

Conclusion

Our conversation with Elisabeth Harding highlighted the crucial intersection of science, policy, and technology in the realm of carbon removal. As the EU continues to refine its approach to climate action, it is clear that the path forward will require collaboration, innovation, and a steadfast commitment to achieving negative emissions. The future of our planet depends on it, and it is up to all of us to engage in this vital conversation.