Next Generation of US Policies To Remove Carbon Pollution From the Atmosphere

The United States is a global leader in developing and deploying technology to remove carbon pollution from the atmosphere, helping launch an entirely new industry over the past several years. Billions of dollars in public and private investment have enabled groundbreaking research, demonstration, and early deployment of a variety of technologies. Looking ahead, there is an opportunity for Congress and the new administration to maintain this leadership position and focus on policies that maximize the job creation, economic development, and other local benefits that carbon removal projects can provide. This expert note provides state, federal, and international policy recommendations for what is needed next to develop and ultimately deploy carbon removal technologies that are effective and safe. We focus on increasing research, development, and demonstration of carbon removal technologies; building demand for carbon removal; and ensuring that robust governance frameworks are in place so that carbon removal projects maximize their climate impact while also providing local benefits.