What is the carbon removal certification framework?

What is the carbon removal certification framework?

Carbon removal is an emerging method of reducing atmospheric carbon dioxide. Recently, new legislation has been introduced to help certify and monitor these carbon removal processes. The Carbon Removals and Carbon Farming (CRCF) Regulation was introduced on 6 December 2024. But why is a carbon removal certification framework necessary?

Standards for carbon removal certification

The certification framework establishes a series of standards for carbon removal projects. Key elements include:

• Voluntary Certification Processes: Certification registers across various regions in Europe.

• Multiple Certification Steps: Several standard steps are involved in the certification process, each with specific metrics that need to be submitted and verified.

What is the verification process in carbon removal certification?

Verification is a critical part of the certification framework. The typical process includes:

1. Project owners submit metrics: Carbon removal project owners provide detailed insights into project metrics, methodology, and success factors.

2. Third-party verification: Impartial third-party certifiers verify the project metrics.

3. Certification and EU Registry: After verification, projects receive certification and are added to the EU registry.

4. Monitoring and liability: Project owners are informed about ongoing monitoring and liability requirements.

What are the metrics and methodologies for carbon removal certification?

Verification is largely based on bioenergy guidelines from the Renewable Energy Directive (2009). An impartial certifier measures the project’s carbon removal results against EU criteria. If compliant, a certificate is issued, and the project’s metrics are published in independent certification registries.

How does the certification framework support climate action?

The certification framework plays a crucial role in supporting climate action. Here’s how it helps:

1. Enhancing trust in carbon markets

The framework ensures that investors can have confidence in certified projects, knowing they meet certain standards before being approved. After certification, a project’s metrics and methodologies may undergo audits, such as assessing soil emission reductions.

2, Encouraging innovation in carbon removal technologies

Standardising certification processes fosters innovation within the industry. By providing clear guidelines for carbon removal technologies, the framework helps new companies innovate and improve performance. This allows for the development of cleaner technologies and encourages greater investment in the sector.

Organisations and Stakeholders Involved in Carbon Removal Certification

Successful carbon removal certification requires collaboration among various organizations. Here's a breakdown of key stakeholders:

Who are the organisations defining certification methodologies?

• The European Commission

• The Expert Group on Carbon Removals

Stakeholders influencing certification procedures

• The European Parliament

• The Council

Government bodies supporting certification

Governments play a pivotal role in defining certification standards and promoting investor confidence. The Commission’s Guidelines on State Aid for Climate, Environmental Protection, and Energy (2022) help define the conditions for state grants.

Independent certifiers

Independent certifiers are approved by the EU Commission to measure project compliance. Successful carbon removal projects receive certificates valid for 1 to 5 years.

Benefits of a certified carbon removal solution

Certified carbon removal projects offer measurable climate impact and help businesses meet Environmental, Social, and Governance (ESG) goals. Methods like carbon farming contribute to this, which includes:

• Mixed farming: Combining livestock and crops in one area

• Biodiversity management: Managing wild habitats and forests sustainably

• Wetlands and peatlands restoration: Rebuilding habitats by restoring and rewetting

• Soil protection: Using hedgerows and cover crops to protect soil

Challenges and the Future of the Carbon Removal Certification Framework

As with any emerging technology, carbon removal certification faces challenges. Below are some of the key issues and potential solutions:

Sychronising international standards in carbon removal certification

Currently, carbon removal certification standards vary across regions. This issue is similar to other sectors within the energy industry. The ISO (International Organization for Standardization) has already begun aligning global standards for net-zero goals. A similar approach for carbon removal frameworks could help unify standards internationally.

Addressing scalability and costs

To reduce costs, scaling technology is crucial. Widespread implementation and data from previous projects can improve cost-efficiency. Additionally, funding schemes such as:

• The European Innovation Council

• The Innovation Fund

• Horizon Europe

offer financial support for carbon removal projects, enabling more widespread adoption.

Future trends in carbon removal certification

The next area of focus for carbon removal certification is the agricultural sector. Sustainable farming practices, including carbon sequestration, can significantly reduce greenhouse gas emissions. Agricultural policies tailored for carbon removal will enhance food security and reduce environmental impacts.

The Carbon Removal Certification Framework is essential for ensuring transparent, credible, and scalable carbon removal projects, driving innovation while supporting global climate action and the transition to a sustainable future.