Carbon removals

Carbon removals refer to the set of activities aimed at removing carbon dioxide (CO₂) from the atmosphere and storing it in natural or technological reservoirs on a durable basis, thereby contributing to climate change mitigation.

Unlike emission reductions, which focus on decreasing the amount of greenhouse gases generated, removals act by capturing CO₂ that has already been emitted. They are a key pillar in climate neutrality strategies and net zero targets, particularly to address residual emissions that are difficult to eliminate.

Types of carbon removals

There are two main categories:

1. Nature-based solutions

• Reforestation and afforestation
• Agricultural soil restoration (carbon farming)
• Wetland and ecosystem restoration

2. Technological solutions

• Direct Air Capture (DAC)
• Bioenergy with Carbon Capture and Storage (BECCS)
• Carbon mineralization

The quality of a carbon removal activity depends on factors such as storage permanence, additionality, verifiability, and the risk of reversal.

Regulatory framework

In Europe, carbon removals are gaining importance within sustainability regulatory frameworks and voluntary carbon markets. The European Commission has introduced the Carbon Removal Certification Framework (CRCF) to establish common quality and transparency criteria.

Business relevance

For companies, carbon removals:

• Complement decarbonization plans.
• Enable the management of residual emissions within Net Zero strategies.
• Strengthen credibility with investors and regulators.
• Require robust traceability and verification to avoid reputational risks.

Without accurate carbon footprint measurement and a clear reduction strategy, carbon removals should not replace decarbonization efforts, they are meant to complement them.

If your company is defining its climate strategy, understanding the difference between reduction, offsetting, and removal is essential to meet international standards and anticipate future regulatory requirements.