Insights by Dr. Avner Gross for Firstime Ventures, Edited by Itamar Weizman

Introduction

Firstime VC is deeply invested in addressing the multifaceted challenge of climate change. A crucial aspect of this challenge is Carbon Dioxide Removal (CDR). This article explores why CDR is critical in the fight against climate change and how it complements traditional emission reduction strategies.

Understanding the Urgency of Carbon Dioxide Removal

Climate change, a formidable threat to our global ecosystem, necessitates a comprehensive strategy that extends beyond reducing emissions. The latest findings, including those from the IPCC’s 6th Assessment Report, emphasize the importance of not only limiting but also reversing the atmospheric accumulation of CO2. This reversal is where CDR technologies become indispensable.

Figure 1. Schematic illustration of NET deployment timing and scale

CDR: A Critical Component of Climate Strategy

While reducing emissions is crucial, it’s only part of the solution. CDR technologies have the unique potential to actively remove existing carbon dioxide from the atmosphere, a necessary step to meet the global warming targets set by international climate agreements. By extracting CO2 from the air, CDR can help mitigate the effects of past emissions and is a vital tool in achieving long-term climate goals.

The Diverse Landscape of CDR Technologies

The field of CDR encompasses a variety of approaches, each with unique mechanisms and potential impacts:

1. Direct Air Capture: DAC technologies involve capturing CO2 directly from the atmosphere, offering a scalable solution to actively reduce atmospheric carbon levels.

2. Enhanced Weathering: This method accelerates natural geological processes to capture and store carbon dioxide, potentially transforming large areas into carbon sinks.

3. Ocean-Based Solutions: Techniques like ocean alkalinity enhancement and carbon capture in marine environments highlight the ocean’s significant role in carbon sequestration.

4. Biological Approaches: Leveraging the natural carbon-absorbing capabilities of forests, soils, and other ecosystems, these methods focus on enhancing and preserving natural carbon sinks.

Figure 2. Various carbon removal technologies and how they capture and store CO2. The artwork was taken from Rita Erven (GEOMAR)

Challenges and Opportunities in CDR Development

The development of CDR technologies faces numerous challenges, including scalability, cost, and environmental impact. However, these challenges also present opportunities for innovation and technological advancement. Effective CDR solutions require multidisciplinary approaches and collaboration across sectors and borders.

Our dedication to supporting CDR

We believe that investing in CDR is not just an environmental imperative but also an opportunity to pave the way for sustainable technological advancements. As we continue to support cutting-edge solutions in this field, our focus remains steadfast on contributing to a healthier, more resilient planet.

Dr Avner Gross, The Department of Geography and the School of Sustainability and Climate Change, Ben Gurion University of the Negev, Israel