Carbon Removal Industry Calls for U.S. Regulation

The carbon dioxide removal industry is advocating for U.S. government regulations to enhance transparency and confidence in a sector that has attracted significant federal funding, exceeding $12 billion. The Carbon Removal Alliance, whose members include major players like Heirloom and Climeworks, argues that the current lack of regulations—limited to safety—hinders competition and leads to a marketing arms race among companies. Executive Director Giana Amador emphasized the need for monitoring, reporting, and verification standards to ensure that carbon removal claims are credible and impactful. Critics, including climate scientist Mark Z. Jacobson, argue that direct air capture technology is overly costly and could serve as a distraction from broader climate solutions. The industry is pushing for federal investment to develop Regional Direct Air Capture Hubs, which aim to capture at least 1 million tons of carbon dioxide annually. Experts call for a multifaceted approach to climate change, advocating for improved energy efficiency and a transition away from fossil fuels as essential strategies.