Roadmap for Answer Writing

1. Introduction (40-50 words):
   • Begin with a brief definition of Carbon Dioxide Removal (CDR), explaining its significance in achieving net negative CO2 emissions as highlighted by the UN Intergovernmental Panel on Climate Change.
   • Mention that CDR encompasses a range of methods designed to remove and store CO2 from the atmosphere.
2. Explanation of CDR (50-60 words):
   • Define CDR as technologies, practices, and approaches that aim to remove CO2 from the atmosphere and store it durably.
   • Reference the IPCC’s report on the role of CDR in mitigating climate change and achieving the global emissions targets.
3. Methods of CDR (120-140 words):
   • Explain various methods of CDR in detail, categorizing them into natural, technological, and marine methods.
     • Afforestation/Reforestation: Planting trees to capture CO2.
     • Peatland Restoration: Re-wetting and restoring degraded peatlands for carbon capture.
     • Biochar: Converting organic waste into carbon-rich material for soil storage.
     • Enhanced Rock Weathering: Spreading silicate rocks to enhance CO2 storage.
     • BECCS: Biomass energy production with CO2 capture and storage.
     • DACCS: Direct capture of CO2 from the atmosphere using industrial processes.
     • Marine-based Techniques: Coastal wetland management and ocean fertilization.
4. Challenges of CDR (80-100 words):
   • Discuss the key challenges associated with CDR methods.
     • Land Competition: Afforestation, BECCS, and other land-intensive methods may compete with food production and energy needs.
     • Biodiversity Impact: Certain methods like single-species afforestation or ocean fertilization could harm ecosystems.
     • Greenhouse Gas Emissions: Improper execution (e.g., biochar combustion) can release CO2 back into the atmosphere.
     • High Costs: Techniques such as DACCS are costly and may be unaffordable for developing nations.
5. Conclusion (30-40 words):
   • Summarize that CDR, while crucial for achieving net negative emissions, should be part of a broader strategy alongside emission reductions.
   • Mention the need for proper governance and policy frameworks to ensure effective implementation of CDR techniques.

Relevant Facts with Sources

• CDR Definition: CDR refers to technologies and practices that remove CO2 from the atmosphere and store it durably to counterbalance emissions. It is crucial for achieving net negative emissions, as outlined by the IPCC’s 2024 report.
• Methods:
  • Afforestation/Reforestation: Tree planting helps in capturing and storing CO2 through natural processes like photosynthesis.
  • Peatland Restoration: Re-wetting and re-vegetating peatlands can help sequester carbon in the soil.
  • Biochar: Converting organic waste into a stable, carbon-rich material that is then stored in soil, enhancing soil health.
  • Enhanced Rock Weathering: Spreading finely ground silicate rocks like basalt accelerates natural weathering, capturing CO2 as solid carbonate minerals.
  • BECCS: Biomass is used to generate energy, with CO2 being captured during the process and stored.
  • DACCS: Capturing CO2 from the atmosphere using industrial chemical processes and storing it underground or in products.
  • Marine-based Techniques: Methods such as ocean fertilization and coastal wetland restoration use natural processes to capture CO2.
• Challenges:
  • Land Competition: Land-intensive techniques like afforestation or BECCS may compete with agricultural land.
  • Biodiversity: Single-species planting and ocean fertilization can lead to adverse effects on biodiversity.
  • GHG Emissions: Improper execution of CDR methods may result in the release of greenhouse gases.
  • Costs: Methods like DACCS and ocean fertilization are costly and may be unfeasible for developing countries.
• Governance Needs: Effective policy frameworks are essential for managing risks and ensuring the successful implementation of CDR methods.