The burgeoning carbon dioxide removal industry is calling for federal oversight, urging the US government to implement standards and regulations to ensure transparency and build public confidence, The Associated Press reports.
The sector, which has been flooded with billions of dollars in federal funding and private investment, is facing growing scrutiny over its effectiveness and long-term viability.
In a report released Wednesday, the Carbon Removal Alliance, a non-profit representing industry players like Heirloom and Climeworks, outlined recommendations for improved monitoring, reporting, and verification. Currently, only safety regulations exist for these projects, leaving a gap in accountability.
The alliance defines carbon removal as any solution that captures carbon dioxide from the atmosphere and stores it permanently. One of the most popular technologies is direct air capture, which filters air, extracts carbon dioxide, and stores it underground.
The Inflation Reduction Act and the Bipartisan Infrastructure Law have allocated some $12 billion for carbon management projects in the US, including the development of four Regional Direct Air Capture Hubs capable of capturing at least 1 million tons of carbon dioxide annually. Two hubs are slated for construction in Texas and Louisiana.
However, some climate scientists remain skeptical. They argue that direct air capture is too expensive, lacks scalability, and could be used by the oil and gas industry as an excuse to continue polluting.
