Global Collaboration in Carbon Dioxide Removal: Navigating a Fragmented Landscape

[Geoengineering News]

https://link.springer.com/article/10.1007/s40518-025-00280-x

Authors: Romain Presty, Olivier Massol & Pascal Da Costa 

31 October 2025

Abstract

Purpose of Review:

As carbon dioxide removal (CDR) becomes an increasingly important component of net-zero strategies, understanding how scientific collaboration is structured globally is essential. This review applies bibliometric methods to map and analyze co-authorship networks, institutional communities, and thematic structures in CDR-related research from 2015 to 2024, using Web of Science data.

Recent Findings:

The analysis of 9,280 publications from 151 countries shows a fragmented research landscape dominated by national and regional clusters. The EU27, the United States, and China account for most of the global output, yet their bilateral collaborations are often thematically specialized rather than broadly interdisciplinary. Only a small proportion of institutions act as connectors across clusters, limiting cross-regional knowledge exchange.

Summary:

These patterns indicate that, while international collaborations exist, structural fragmentation may constrain the development of shared methodologies and coordinated policy support for CDR. Strengthening bilateral and multilateral partnerships through co-funded initiatives, harmonized monitoring standards, and better alignment between scientific capacity and policy priorities could help bridge gaps.

Source: Springer Nature Link