Advanced Carbon Removal Technologies: Technology to Capture CO₂

Understanding Advanced Carbon Removal

As the urgency to combat climate change intensifies, advanced carbon removal technologies are emerging as pivotal solutions. Unlike traditional carbon capture methods— these innovative approaches actively remove CO₂ from the atmosphere— creating pathways for achieving net-zero emissions. These technologies range from Direct Air Capture (DAC) to soil-based and ocean-based solutions, each offering unique benefits and challenges.

Recent developments highlight the growing importance of these technologies. The global carbon dioxide removal (CDR) market, currently valued at approximately $2 billion— is projected to expand to $50 billion by 2030 and exceed $250 billion by 2035[1]. This growth is fueled by increasing corporate commitments to net-zero targets and advancements in engineered and natural removal approaches.

Key Technologies

1. Direct Air Capture (DAC):
This technology uses chemical processes to capture CO₂ directly from ambient air. Companies like Climeworks are scaling operations, reducing costs, and improving designs. DAC can remove up to 310 gigatons of CO₂ by 2100, provided it scales rapidly[2]. Current costs range from $200–900 per ton but are expected to drop significantly as technology matures.

2. Bioenergy with Carbon Capture and Storage (BECCS):
BECCS combines biomass energy production with carbon capture, resulting in net-negative emissions. It is poised for integration into systems like the EU Emissions Trading System (ETS) which plans pilot phases starting in 2025[3].

3. Soil Carbon Sequestration:
Next-generation soil carbon techniques such as: enhanced rock weathering, biochar application and microbial additives, promise higher permanence and efficacy than traditional regenerative practices. For instance— biochar can sequester 5–10 tons of CO₂ per acre— commanding a premium price in voluntary carbon markets[4].

4. Ocean-Based Solutions:
Ocean fertilization and seaweed farming enhance the ocean’s ability to absorb CO₂. These methods complement terrestrial approaches but require careful monitoring to avoid ecological disruptions.

Why Advanced Technologies Matter Now

The global climate crisis demands immediate action beyond emission reductions. Advanced carbon removal technologies offer scalable solutions that can help achieve significant emissions reductions while unlocking economic opportunities.

• Scalability: Technologies like DAC and BECCS have the potential to remove billions of tons of CO₂ annually.
• Complementary Role: Reducing emissions alone may not suffice; removal technologies act as a critical complement to mitigation efforts.
• Economic Growth: Investments in these technologies are projected to drive job creation and innovation in the green sector— with climate tech investments expected to reach $1.5–2 trillion by 2025.

Challenges and Considerations

Despite their promise, advanced carbon removal technologies face significant hurdles:

• High Costs: Many technologies remain expensive due to their experimental nature. For example: - DAC costs are high but expected to decline with scaling effects.
• Public Perception: Skepticism regarding safety and effectiveness persists among some communities.
• Long-Term Viability: Ensuring permanent storage of captured CO₂ is critical to prevent leakage back into the atmosphere.

Looking Ahead

The future of advanced carbon removal technologies is promising but requires collaboration among governments, businesses and researchers. Policy support through mechanisms like tax credits (e.g., US 45Q) and innovation funding from entities like the EU will be crucial for scaling these solutions[5].

By investing in these technologies now, we can take meaningful steps toward a sustainable future. Achieving net-zero emissions isn’t just about reducing our footprint—it’s about actively removing legacy carbon from our atmosphere.

[1] https://www.globenewswire.com/news-release/2025/02/19/3028948/28124/en/Carbon-Dioxide-Removal-CDR-Forecast-2025-2045-Technologies-Trends-and-Investment-Insights-Projections-Suggest-Market-Expansion-to-50-Billion-by-2030-and-Exceeding-250-Billion-by-20.html

[2] https://climeworks.com/direct-air-capture

[3] https://www.argusmedia.com/en/news-and-insights/latest-market-news/2208390-eu-ets-pilot-phase-for-beccs-daccs-in-2025-study

[4] https://www.bcg.com/publications/2024/unearthing-soils-carbon-removal-potential-in-agriculture

[5] https://www.argusmedia.com/en/news-and-insights/latest-market-news/2208390-eu-ets-pilot-phase-for-beccs-daccs-in-2025-study