How CDR policy can be governed effectively
© Scott Graham / Unsplash
In order to limit global warming to ‘well below 2 °C’, carbon dioxide removal (CDR) technologies must complement emission reduction. However, due to their currently limited economic attractiveness, companies rarely use them voluntarily. Therefore, policy instruments such as laws, taxes or subsidies are needed to create incentives.
A new publication in the scientific journal Climate Policy by CDRterra researchers Antonia Holland-Cunz and JProf. Dr Christian Baatz from Kiel University introduces an assessment framework for CDR policy instruments. Developed within the CDRterra consortium CDR-PoEt it aids to analyse the feasibility and desirability of policy instruments for CDR, supporting well-informed decisions. The evaluation structure of this framework is also a central component of the CDRterra assessment framework, which is used specifically to evaluate individual CDR methods.
© Antonia Holland-Cunz
Framework for effective CDR policy
The framework evaluates policy measures based on 15 criteria in six dimensions, including feasibility, distributional justice and cost-effectiveness. It enables policymakers, administrations and stakeholders to transparently and systematically select CDR strategies.
Decision-making tool for politics and society
The framework can be applied at various stages – from the development of new measures to the optimisation of existing CDR policy. Most importantly, it highlights interactions and trade-offs and contributes to the creation of long-term, effective CDR policies.
Author Antonia Holland-Cunz: ‘CDR is crucial for climate mitigation. For the technologies to realise their potential, they need well thought-out governance. Our new assessment model provides a robust basis for political decisions.’
© Antonia Holland-Cunz
Antonia Holland-Cunz and JProf. Dr Christian Baatz conduct research in the CDRterra consortium CDR-PoEt. It deals with the politics and ethics of CO₂ removal.
In addition, JProf. Dr Christian Baatz is researching the potential of land-based CDR methods as part of the STEPSEC consortium team. He is also the coordinator of the ASMASYS consortium of the partner research program CDRmare.
Publication:
Antonia Holland-Cunz and Christian Baatz: How to govern carbon dioxide removal: an assessment framework for policy instruments. Climate Policy 2025. https://doi.org/10.1080/14693062.2025.2459315.