A new study, commissioned by the Klimaatonderzoek Initiatief Nederland (KIN), explores what responsible carbon dioxide removal (CDR) development could look like in the Netherlands. 

Focused on CO2 removal governance and research, the publication was co-written by researchers from the University of Twente, Delft University of Technology, and Deltares. 

In the published report, the authors outline a number of key findings, including concerns around CDR development and further research necessities. 

The study included the assessment of a broad set of CDR pathways and each method’s possible benefits and impacts, as well as uncertainties and risks. The pathways were then evaluated in the context of competition for resources within the Netherlands and available CDR monitoring and risk management tools.

As a result, the researchers provide a framework of core principles that could ensure the responsible growth of these technologies in the Netherlands. 

According to the research, the availability and effectiveness of many CDR approaches remain largely unknown in the country, while adequate regulatory frameworks are currently lacking, and gaining a positive public perception and acceptance on CO2 removal would be key for future successful implementation. 

The study underlines that CDR delivers impacts beyond the reduction of atmospheric greenhouse gases, noting that these technologies can create conflicts of distributive justice when the benefits and burdens are shared unfairly.

Additionally, the authors point out that it is important to emphasize net removal by also tracking GHGs emitted by the CDR process. The duration and security of CO2 storage are critical, and the researchers signal that mitigation deterrence can lead to long-term harms.

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