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TABLE OF CONTENTSNote: Click on the headings listed in the table of contents above to easily navigate to the sections you’re interested in. THIS WEEKS TOP CDR HIGHLIGHTSDOE FUNDING CUTS: The Trump administration has canceled awards for nearly half of the 21 federally supported megaprojects that seek to pull carbon dioxide from the atmosphere including TA-1 and TA-2 Direct Air Capture Hubs, Carbon Negative Shot Pilots, and CarbonSAFE program. Ten direct air capture hub projects collectively lost nearly $47.4 million, according to an analysis by POLITICO’s E&E News. BECCS ADVANCEMENT COMMISSION ACT: US Representatives Blake Moore and Jim Costa introduced bipartisan, innovative legislation bolstering the deployment of BECCS technology in the U.S. The BECCS Advancement Commission Act of 2025 establishes a commission of industry and policymakers at the Departments of Agriculture, Energy, and the Interior to provide recommendations, guidance, and expertise on the deployment of related projects. REPORT: CO2RE released the first comprehensive review of UK laws governing greenhouse gas removal, authored by University of Edinburgh scholars. Based on 31 interviews, it maps legal gaps and challenges to scaling GGR deployment nationwide. CDR MARKET OUTLOOK: A new analysis by AlliedOffsets finds that net zero by 2050 requires 5-22 billion tonnes of removals annually, costing 1-6% of yearly GDP. RELOCATION: CarbonCapture Inc. has moved its 2,000-ton direct air capture Tamarack project from the US to Canada, compelled by shifting political winds and a better policy environment in the north. CALL FOR CONSULTATION: Isometric has released a draft protocol for CDR via Mangrove Restoration for public consultation. The protocol sets out requirements and procedures for projects that remove carbon by re-establishing or enabling the recovery of mangrove ecosystems where they have been degraded or lost. Deadline to provide comments: 30 October 2025 Read on to unpack more updates: COMMERCIAL NEWS Share Carbon Removal Updates RESEARCH PAPERSAuthors: Maitri Verma & Cherie GautamSynopsis: This study develops a nonlinear model to assess how budget allocation between ocean-based carbon removal and shellfish farming affects atmospheric CO₂ dynamics. Results show that higher investment efficacy lowers CO₂ levels, but excessive budget growth or time delays can destabilize the system, causing oscillations. Improved efficiency in enhancing oceanic CO₂ uptake stabilizes the system, offering insights for optimizing marine carbon removal investments.
Authors: Scott FreemanSynopsis: As global policy increasingly favors nature-based carbon removal, this paper warns that such approaches may repeat past conservation injustices. Drawing on critical conservation scholarship, it highlights risks like displacement, economic marginalization, and erasure of Indigenous and local communities, urging the CDR field to integrate social justice into carbon removal policy and practice.
Authors: Daniele Fulvi & Kian Mintz-WooSynopsis: This paper examines Carbon Dioxide Removal (CDR) through the lens of transitional justice, arguing that CDR can align with a just transition despite some ethical challenges. The authors contend that viewing CDR as a moral hazard undermines climate goals, while rejecting it outright poses a greater moral risk to achieving adequate mitigation.
Authors: Zijun Wu, Shuo Bai, Hengchao Xu, Liang DongSynopsis: Geochemical analysis of Kermadec Trench sediments reveals that tectonic and volcanic events play a key role in hadal carbon sequestration. Earthquake-triggered turbidity currents and eruptions drive intense organic carbon burial—up to 20 times higher than steady-state rates—creating strong spatial contrasts in carbon cycling and underscoring the role of episodic events in global carbon fluxes.
Authors: Dominik Antoni, Marco Rump, Gunnar GerdtsSynopsis: This mesocosm study comparing two Ocean Alkalinity Enhancement (OAE) methods, olivine weathering and dissolved NaOH, found that olivine-based OAE significantly altered marine bacterial communities and increased potentially pathogenic Vibrios in oyster gills. Dissolved alkalinity caused minimal changes. The findings indicate that OAE method choice strongly affects microbial ecology, with olivine posing higher environmental risks than dissolved approaches.
Authors: Xiangdong Li, Hui Lin, Guan Wang, Gaofeng Dai, Yongqiang Chen, Yong Luo, Bin Liu, Jiaye Zhang, Richard L. Axelbaum, Xuebin WangSynopsis: Using ASPEN Plus modeling, this study evaluates a 550 MW staged, pressurized oxy-biomass combustion (Bio-SPOC) power plant, showing a peak net efficiency of 38.03% (LHV) at 1 MPa—4.26% higher than coal systems. Efficiency gains stem from greater latent heat recovery and lower oxygen demand, highlighting Bio-SPOC’s potential to reduce fossil fuel use and enable negative emissions.
Authors: Emelie Crafoord, Christina Wanhainen, Glenn BarkSynopsis: This study provides the first systematic assessment of onshore CO₂ mineral storage potential in Sweden, analyzing 23 sites. The Örnsköldsvik and Sundsvall regions, with gabbro-anorthosite and dolerite formations rich in reactive minerals like olivine and plagioclase, show the highest promise for mineral carbonation. These findings establish a foundation for future site-specific validation and experimental CO₂ sequestration studies.
Authors: Jiayuan Liu, Ning Zhang, Xinyu Miao, Zhen Xu, Tianyu Zhang, Ying Wei, Hailong Wu, Fude LiuSynopsis: Studying two seawall-protected wetlands in China’s Yellow River Delta, researchers found that seawalls alter soil organic carbon (SOC) dynamics, increasing divergence between intertidal and supratidal zones. Intertidal habitats held higher SOC stocks (76.9 t/ha) dominated by mineral-associated carbon, while supratidal zones contained more particulate and humus-like carbon. The study highlights the need for integrated coastal habitat management to sustain carbon sequestration under climate change.
Authors: Sarah S. Gall, Tom Harwood, Michael Obersteiner & Jim W. HallSynopsis: Using a 500 m grid analysis and multi-objective optimization across Great Britain, this study assesses trade-offs between agriculture, carbon sequestration, and biodiversity. Results show current land use is far from optimal, but targeted land conversions could greatly boost carbon storage and biodiversity without reducing overall agricultural output, supporting smarter land-use reform.
Authors: Mukund Patil, Cuba Perumal, Pushpajeet Choudhari, Rajesh Pasumarthi, Gajanan Sawargaonkar & Ramesh SinghSynopsis: A meta-analysis of 147 studies across India’s agro-climatic zones finds that regenerative agriculture (RA) significantly boosts soil organic carbon (SOC), especially over periods exceeding five years. Biochar and farmyard manure yielded the highest SOC gains, while conservation tillage and residue retention provided steady benefits. Semi-arid and sub-humid regions showed the strongest responses, confirming RA’s long-term carbon sequestration potential when regionally tailored.
Authors: Francisco SM Araujo, Rafael M SantosSynopsis: Field tests in wollastonite-amended croplands near Port Colborne, Ontario, show that soil calcimetry can track short-term carbonate fluxes and rainfall effects in Enhanced Rock Weathering (ERW) systems. Significant soil alkalinization and distinct dissolution–precipitation signals were observed, with rainfall driving carbonate formation. The study demonstrates calcimetry’s promise as a scalable monitoring tool for ERW-based CO₂ sequestration.
Authors: Isabel Mendes, Julia Lübbers, Joachim Schönfeld, and Alexandra CravoSynopsis: A year-long field experiment in Portugal’s Ria Formosa lagoon tested olivine and basalt for ocean alkalinity enhancement. Both increased pore-water alkalinity by 1.5–2.3 mM and boosted dissolved inorganic carbon, with basalt performing best. Treatments also raised CO₂ fluxes and carbon outwelling to the ocean, revealing key temporal dynamics of alkalinity-driven CDR in coastal wetlands.
Authors: Iñigo Martínez-Visus, Lucía Carrillo-Sánchez, Jose Miguel Luque-Alled, Andrew Foster, Peter Budd, Carlos Téllez, Joaquín CoronasSynopsis: This study develops advanced membrane materials for direct air capture (DAC) of CO₂ using PolyActive™ and PIM-1 polymers enhanced with tailored zeolitic imidazolate frameworks (ZIFs). A dual-ligand modification improved CO₂ interaction and polymer compatibility, achieving a CO₂ permeance of 1037 GPU and selectivity of 16.2 at 500 ppm—showing strong potential for energy-efficient DAC applications.
Authors: Xiaotong Du, Kui Hu, Jiahao Zhang, Jia Li, Giuseppe Carlo Marano, Tingyi ZhangSynopsis: Researchers developed a CO₂-enriched cement slurry treatment to improve recycled concrete aggregates (RCA) for sustainable pavements. The process carbonates calcium silicate hydrate, reducing water absorption by 13.4%, boosting bond strength by 1.62 MPa, and enhancing Marshall stability by 40%. Molecular and LCA analyses show improved asphalt adhesion, moisture resistance, and reduced environmental impact.
Authors: Laurie Waller, Emily Cox, and Rob BellamySynopsis: This paper explores the controversy surrounding a proposed ocean alkalinity enhancement trial in St Ives Bay, UK. Drawing on ethnographic research, it examines how local communities mobilized against the project, reframing it as a direct intervention in their environment.
Authors: Stephanie H. Arcusa, Klaus S. LacknerSynopsis: The authors argue, drawing on the principles of intergenerational equity and the polluter-pays framework, that carbon sequestration must be permanent on climate-relevant timescales—over 10,000 years—far exceeding the durability of most current credits. The paper explores the ethical, scientific, and economic implications of guaranteeing such permanence, whether through permanent storage or successive temporary measures. It raises key questions about accountability, equity, and governance in ensuring lasting climate benefits.
Authors: Mijndert Van der Spek, André Bardow, Chad M. Baum, Vittoria Bolongaro, et al.Synopsis: As CDR technologies move from research to real-world deployment, this review compiles current understanding of DACCS, covering its technical maturity, economic and environmental performance, policy landscape, equity and justice considerations, public perception, and monitoring frameworks. The analysis highlights that large-scale DACCS deployment—critical for achieving net-negative emissions—remains constrained by high costs. The authors conclude that long-term, targeted government support akin to past renewable energy subsidies will be essential for DACCS to scale effectively and contribute meaningfully to global decarbonisation goals.
Schematic process diagram for the liquid sorbent DAC process with calcium looping (Source)WEB POSTSREPORTSThis table compiles a highly summarised representation of the key legal barriers and challenges experienced by UK GGR stakeholders (Source)Share Carbon Removal Updates BOOKUPCOMING EVENTSOctober 2025November 2025December 2025We have curated a “Carbon Removal Events Calendar.” Explore and stay informed about upcoming events, conferences, and webinars on Carbon Dioxide Removal technology. Sync specific events / all events to your default calendar to ensure you never miss out on important CDR updates. Carbon Removal Events Calendar JOB OPPOTUNITIES“ClimeFi is the leading portfolio manager for durable carbon removals. ClimeFi partners with global companies to build and manage durable carbon removal portfolios.”
“The Carbon Removal India Alliance (CRIA) is the only non-partisan industry-led coalition and ecosystem organisation dedicated to catalysing and supporting the growth of a thriving durable carbon dioxide removal (CDR) sector in India.”
“Everest is a venture-backed deep tech startup on a mission to unlock 1 GtCO₂/year of permanent removals by 2035. We’ve developed the first live sensor for Enhanced Rock Weathering, making the most scalable carbon removal pathway measurable for the first time.”
“SeaO₂ is at the forefront of driving mCDR and Direct Ocean Capture (DOC), revolutionizing the way we address climate change. We’re on an exciting journey and we’d love for you to be a part of it.”
“MZT is a London-based climate tech startup working to reinvent carbon for a thriving planet. Since 2020, we have rapidly pioneered the world’s most versatile direct air capture (DAC) technology to recover historic CO₂ emissions from the atmosphere, anywhere at any scale.”
“CREW’s technology and services make wastewater treatment cheaper and more efficient, while permanently sequestering CO₂.”
“Chestnut is on a mission to help forest landowners in the U.S. unlock the financial and conservation benefits of carbon markets.”
“Novocarbo is one of Europe’s leading biochar carbon removal companies. We produce and trade biochar at industrial scale, combining permanent carbon storage with practical applications in construction, agriculture, and energy.”
“At CUR8, we’re driven to build the worldwide market for carbon removals. We’re on a mission to facilitate 1 billion tonnes of carbon removed in a single year.”
“Removall is a company specializing in the development and financing of certified carbon projects. We support companies and organizations in implementing rigorous and ambitious carbon contribution strategies.”
“PUR has pioneered climate and nature interventions within value chains, earning recognition as a certified B Corp and a global leader in nature-based solutions.”
Looking for your dream job in CDR? There are 576 jobs available *right now*: check them all out at: CDRjobs Board
PODCASTS“Tim Thomson of Charm Industrial joins Tom Heintzman, Vice Chair, Energy Transition and Sustainability at CIBC Capital Markets, to discuss why Canada is an attractive market for carbon removal. They explore how Charm, a U.S.-based developer, views the similarities between the Canadian and U.S. markets, the challenges and opportunities to scaling their carbon removal approach in Canada, and how Canadian government policies are attracting developers.”
Turning Seawater into a Carbon Removal Solution with Captura | Inevitable | Turning Seawater into a Carbon Removal Solution with Captura Inevitable 41:48 |
“Steve Oldham is CEO of Captura. Captura develops Direct Ocean Capture (DOC) technology that removes CO₂ from seawater, triggering the ocean to draw more CO₂ from the air to rebalance. With CO₂ concentrations ~150× higher in seawater than air, Captura’s closed-loop process uses electrodialysis to create acid and base on site—no added chemicals, no waste—and can run largely on off-peak renewable energy.
Oldham, former CEO of Carbon Engineering, contrasts DOC with DAC, discusses MRV and crediting, deployment pathways (onshore, barges, vessels), his company’s pilot progress in Hawaii, and why pragmatic scale-up and licensing partnerships matter for gigaton carbon removal.”
The World Will Be Saved by Beauty: Carbon Removal’s Feature Film Debut, LEGION 44—w/ Leila Conners, filmmaker | Reversing Climate Change | 368: The World Will Be Saved by Beauty: Carbon Removal's Feature Film Debut, LEGION 44—w/ Leila Conners, filmmaker Reversing Climate Change 48:31 |
“We all want to make sure carbon removal works. But who is working to make it beautiful? And could creating beauty be one of the most important jobs in all of climate?Leila Conners is a filmmaker who has been making environmental films for decades, including legendary ones like The 11th Hour with Leonardo DiCaprio. Her latest opus is Legion 44, which is a wonderful documentary highlighting so many alumni from this podcast and the CDR industry.We also discuss why the antihero is such a popular archetype, how you should construct your media diet, and the role of the feature film when long-form and short-form content are polarizing media duration.Legion 44 is now available for viewing on its own website and several other places, as well as on Tree+: Leila’s new tv channel that you can download right to your smart tv. Please support her work spotlighting climate solutions and the delightful world of carbon removers.”
Are ERW and OAE ready for Carbon Removal Certification? - with Rachel Smith | The CDR Policy Scoop | Are ERW and OAE ready for Carbon Removal Certification? - with Rachel Smith The CDR Policy Scoop 29:01 |
“On 25 September, the European Commission convened its first Technical Workshop on Enhanced Rock Weathering (ERW) and Ocean Alkalinity Enhancement (OAE) under the Carbon Removal and Carbon Farming framework (CRCF). This marks the formal beginning of the journey toward EU recognition of these technologies.The context is clear: DACCS, BECCS, and biochar methodologies are soon settled, but permanent removals need more arrows in their quiver. The Commission is now turning to the next set of methods.Key questions remain wide open:– How mature is the science for robust MRV?– How will permanence, leakage, and environmental impacts be addressed?– What pace can we realistically expect for final CRCF methodologies for ERW and OAE?We’re delighted to be joined by Rachel Smith, Policy Director at Cascade Climate. Rachel has been at the forefront of shaping policy pathways for ERW, in particular, and will help us put the workshop discussions into perspective.”
“Carbon credit ratings must be independent,” Sebastien Cross, BeZero co-founder | Carbonsations | "Carbon credit ratings must be independent," Sebastien Cross, BeZero co-founder Carbonsations 33:53 |
“Joining us in this episode is Sebastien Cross, co-founder and Chief Innovation Officer of carbon credit ratings agency BeZero Carbon. Sebastien walks us through the path BeZero forged for ratings in the nascent voluntary carbon market, and explains the crucial role that independence and transparency play in building trust in the VCM.”
YOUTUBE VIDEOSClimate Week NYC 2025 | Navigating Turbulent Times: Adaptive Strategies for Ocean-Climate Solutions | Ocean Visions “As political tides shift in the U.S. and around the world, those working at the ocean-climate nexus are facing a new, more volatile reality. Some systems we rely on are being dismantled. Others are gaining strength in surprising places. How do we adapt, respond, and keep pushing forward? This high-impact Climate Week NYC event brings together top minds across science, law, policy, and practice to unpack the latest headwinds and breakthroughs and explore how to stay effective amid uncertainty.”
Accelerating the Adoption of Direct Air Capture Technologies | Boston Consulting Group “Many companies have purchased carbon credits, financing numerous DAC projects. Heimdal’s Marcus Lima and BCG’s Alex Dewar expect evolving business models to further spur market growth.”
Catching Up with Mike Kelland from Planetary | Tree+ “Planetary received a major boost from the Frontier and can now scale to the next step. Leila Conners catches up with Planetary CEO Mike Kelland on their big new deal and also updates everyone who is new to ocean alkalinity enhancement, or OAE. We touch on working with the fossil fuel industry, why Planetary’s OAE is not geoengineering and how they can make fly ash circular.”
The Future of Carbon Capture & Climate Innovation | Spritju “In this episode, we sit down with Tomas Thyblad, VP for Carbon and Sustainability at NASDAQ, to explore the fast-evolving world of carbon capture technologies and their role in tackling climate change.”
Carbon Removal Day Rap Up - AirMiners 2025 | AirMiners “At Friday’s gathering of the AirMiners community entrepreneurs and supporters of the emerging carbon dioxide removal (CDR) industry shared their recent successes and targets, using technologies as diverse as rock mineralization, biochar, tidal algae, and regenerative agriculture to remove heat-trapping CO2 from the atmosphere and put it to more productive use.”
Target Practice Interactive Webinar | Carbon Gap “Carbon Gap presents its Coordination Allocations of Removal Efforts (CARE) Calculator, an interactive webtool which sheds light on the carbon dioxide removal (CDR) ambition gap and the lack of cooperation in countries’ planning for CDR deployment. With a few key experts in the field, we then explore CDR targets setting and the available criteria for allocating removal efforts.”
Biochar in Bloom: Lessons from Okaw Valley Orchard | Webinar with Mike Mitchell | Grain Ecosystem “Together, we explored how biochar is reshaping agriculture from the ground up, with powerful lessons from Okaw Valley Orchard and beyond.”
Day 4 - Marine Carbon Dioxide Removal Standing Committee: Meeting 2 | National Academies - Earth and Life Studies Day 3 - Marine Carbon Dioxide Removal Standing Committee: Meeting 2 | National Academies - Earth and Life Studies Day 2 - Marine Carbon Dioxide Removal Standing Committee: Meeting 2 | National Academies - Earth and Life Studies “During these sessions, the Committee will hear from experts on the following topics:-The ocean’s role in climate mitigation-The state of MRV (Monitoring, Reporting, and Verification) for carbon removal-Recent advances in the mCDR field-The state of mCDR policy and permitting-Social perceptions of mCDR-Lab, mesocosm, and field trials-Additional global perspectives on mCDR”
Weekly Carbon Removal Updates from 29 September - 05 October 2025 | Carbon Removal Updates BulletinDEADLINESFollow us on:Twitter | Bluesky | LinkedIn | YouTube | Substack | Podcast 1 | Podcast 2
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