Negative emissions for a positive future
A new industry is emerging around the active removal of carbon dioxide (CO₂) from the atmosphere. Germany is in a unique position to become a pioneer in this new carbon dioxide removal (CDR) industry.
A driver for growth and jobs
Negative emissions, as CDR is also known, could develop into an industry with an economic potential of 70 billion euro in Germany by 2050. Its contribution to GDP would then be almost half that of the automotive industry today.
In this country alone, up to 190,000 future-proof jobs would be created, more than currently exist in the wind energy sector.
Climate action
Negative emissions make an indispensable contribution to achieving our climate targets. They help to stabilise CO₂ levels in the atmosphere, offset residual emissions that are difficult to avoid and, in the long term, remove more CO₂ than we emit.
Future potential for the economy and climateGermany as a pioneer of sustainable industry
Measures for a successful CDR industryWhat needs to be done
CDR methods
Enhanced rock weathering
This method accelerates the natural process of mineral weathering in order to bind CO₂.
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Direct CO₂ capture
Capturing CO₂ directly from the ambient air for subsequent underground storage or use in long-lasting products.
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Bioenergy with CO₂ capture
Generating electricity/heat or biomethane from biomass, capturing and storing CO₂ or using it in long-lasting products.
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Biochar carbon removal
Converting biomass or other biogenic material into a stable form of carbon that is used to improve soils or in long-lasting products such as asphalt or cement.
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Improved forest management
Planting new forests and restoring existing ones to capture CO₂ through photosynthesis.
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Soil carbon sequestration
This method improves carbon storage in the soil through practices such as direct seeding, cover cropping and organic materials.
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Blue carbon management
Conserving and restoring coastal/marine ecosystems such as mangroves, seagrass and tidal marshes.
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Ocean fertilisation
Adding nutrients such as iron or phosphorus to oceans to promote phytoplankton growth (which absorbs CO₂ through photosynthesis).
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Alkalisation of oceans and rivers
This method can increase the ocean’s capacity to absorb and store CO₂ by adding alkaline minerals to seawater.
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