Understanding Carbon Removal Methods: Nature-Based, Hybrid, and Engineered Solutions

As the global efforts to combat climate change intensify, carbon dioxide removal (CDR) methods and projects are diversifying, spanning from harnessing the power of natural ecosystems to employing cutting-edge carbon engineering solutions that are in line with the Intergovernmental Panel on Climate Change (IPCC). Understanding different CDR methods and how they span across the Voluntary Carbon Market (VCM) is pivotal to shaping effective climate action plans in the race to reach net-zero emissions.

This guide delves into the three major CDR methods: Nature-Based Solutions, Hybrid Solutions, and Engineered Solutions, providing a comprehensive overview of the key characteristics of each and how they compare in the market. Together, they weave a complex tapestry of solutions that could play pivotal roles in achieving climate targets and fostering a sustainable future. 

At ClimateSeed, we maximize positive environmental and social impacts by providing climate solutions to support meaningful carbon removal projects, leveraging the pivotal and necessary financing mechanisms of the VCM.

Nature-based Solutions in Carbon Removal Methods

Nature-based Solutions (NbS) are projects that leverage natural processes —such as photosynthesis or soil carbon sequestration— to remove and store carbon dioxide from the atmosphere. 

NbS solutions include projects involving reforestation, agriculture, mangroves, seagrass, and seaweed farming among others.

Hybrid Solutions

Hybrid solutions combine natural processes with human interventions and technological advancements. These projects recognize the complementary nature of ecological and technological interventions to maximize CO₂ removal opportunities.

Hybrid solutions include projects involving biochar, enhanced rock weathering, carbonated materials, and woody biomass.

Engineered Solutions

Engineered solutions involve advanced technologies to directly capture and store carbon dioxide from the atmosphere. It involves human-made technologies that focus on mitigating emissions directly, rather than relying on natural ecosystems or processes. 

Engineered solutions can be categorized into carbon capture and utilization (CCU) technologies, and carbon capture and storage (CCS) technologies. While they both focus on removing carbon, the end goals can differ. CCU technologies focus on end-use applications of removed carbon as raw material (construction materials, production of chemicals, biofuels, etc.) CCS technologies focus on storing carbon in geological formations to prevent their release into the atmosphere. 

Engineered solutions include Direct Air Capture (DAC) systems and Bioenergy with Carbon Capture and Storage (BECCS).

How do these different CDR methods differ? 

One way to compare CDR methods is by looking at both the internal attributes of each and the external market environment in which they operate. 

Table one serves as an internal lens, delving into some intrinsic attributes of each type of carbon removal method. Internal attributes explore elements like project size potential, implementation feasibility, cost, co-benefits, and the crucial dimension of permanence. This internal examination provides a nuanced understanding of the internal efficacy, on-the-ground applicability, and potential to achieve Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs) beyond just carbon removal.

Table two presents another way to compare CDR methods, considering elements of the market in which they operate such as credit volume potential, market readiness and maturity, and pricing dynamics. This external comparison provides insights in terms of the viability and scalability of these methods and their adaptability to the broader market landscape in light of demand.

Download our carbon removal guide by following this link. For more information on carbon removal methods, feel free to contact our carbon project experts at project@climateseed.com.