EU approves first official certification framework for carbon removals

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🗞️ Driving the news: The EU Council has approved the first official certification framework for carbon removal, marking a milestone in the bloc’s climate strategy
• The regulation will enable certification of permanent carbon removal, carbon farming, and CO2 storage in products, aiming to support the EU’s goal of climate neutrality by 2050
• The framework introduces rigorous criteria for long-term carbon storage, sustainability, and third-party verification

🔭 The context: This regulation addresses three areas: technologies like Direct Air Capture with Storage (DACS) and BECCS, CO2 storage in durable products like wood, and soil-based carbon farming practices such as reforestation and wetlands restoration
• Projects must demonstrate additionality, quantified CO2 reductions, and alignment with sustainability goals
• The framework enhances transparency and financial viability for carbon removal initiatives

🌍 Why it matters for the planet: By formalizing carbon removal certification, the EU reinforces its commitment to scalable, verifiable climate solutions
• The regulation could serve as a model for other regions and accelerate the deployment of technologies critical to mitigating global warming

⏭️ What's next: The regulation will be published in the EU’s Official Journal and become applicable 20 days post-publication across all member states
• Its implementation is expected to catalyze investment and innovation in carbon removal and storage projects

💬 One quote: “The EU’s new framework represents a critical step towards achieving a climate-neutral future by ensuring that carbon removal projects are both credible and sustainable,” announced the EU Council

📈 One stat: The regulation covers carbon storage for at least 35 years and soil-based carbon farming for a minimum of 5 years, ensuring robust climate impact

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