During 2021 the Energy Transitions Commission has sought to better understand the role of carbon dioxide removals in meeting emissions reduction and climate objectives. The ETC’s work began with a consultation paper published in May 2021, followed by a series of stakeholder workshops undertaken throughout the year, and will culminate with the publication of a report.
This ETC Insights Briefing is a summary of key insights from an upcoming report. One underlying assumption is that a combination of natural climate solutions and engineered carbon dioxide removals will be required to keep the world on a trajectory towards 1.5°C. Importantly, if the world is to achieve its climate objective of net-zero by 2050, carbon dioxide removals will need to be scaled up and should complement, not replace, emission reduction measures.
The goal is to provide a concise reference document on this nuanced subject prior to UNFCCC COP26. Ultimately, it aims to inform the way net-zero targets are set by countries and corporates. This briefing constitutes a collective view of the Energy Transitions Commission.