In the rapidly evolving landscape of carbon dioxide removal (CDR), understanding the intricate web of players and their roles is becoming increasingly complex. The field, once primarily focused on research, now involves a multitude of organizations, standards, and initiatives that are shaping the path forward. As the ecosystem expands, so does the challenge of navigating it effectively.
The CDR sector has transitioned from foundational research to a multifaceted ecosystem with stakeholders involved in research, standard setting, method validation, project financing, and policymaking. This shift necessitates a comprehensive understanding of who is influencing innovation, who is financing projects, and how these entities are interconnected. Without a cohesive view, there’s a risk of redundant efforts and missed opportunities to leverage local expertise.
Similar to the evolution seen in clean-energy technologies like wind and solar, CDR is advancing through stages of scientific research, engineering, validation, and deployment. However, the diversity of CDR approaches—ranging from direct air capture to nature-based solutions—adds layers of complexity. Each method progresses at its own pace, requiring tailored support and readiness strategies.
Significant milestones have marked the growth of CDR as a distinct field. The $25 million Virgin Earth Challenge in 2007 and the Paris Agreement underscored the need for removal solutions. In subsequent years, initiatives like the UK Research and Innovation program expanded the research landscape, while the Natural Climate Solutions paper highlighted the potential of land-based pathways.
Public and private sectors have begun to invest significantly in CDR. Initiatives like the Carbon Negative Shot and the Bipartisan Infrastructure Law aim to scale up projects and reduce costs. Meanwhile, new market mechanisms, such as Frontier’s advance market commitment, are creating demand for CDR solutions and setting benchmarks through the State of CDR assessments.
Despite this progress, the field still lacks a comprehensive map of the ecosystem’s connections. A February 2025 snapshot by CDR.fyi captured 563 organizations across 49 countries, highlighting the need for a dynamic understanding of roles and relationships. This map should illustrate how capital, data, contracts, and verification flow through the ecosystem, identifying where gaps exist.
The Importance of Mapping Connections
Every project within the CDR ecosystem operates within a network that includes suppliers, buyers, investors, policymakers, and researchers. Understanding these relationships is crucial, as many organizations play multiple roles, which can speed up progress but also risk conflicts of interest.
Beyond Static Lists
To maximize impact, stakeholders need to move beyond static directories and embrace an evolving map of the ecosystem. This involves continuously updating who leads in various pathways and geographies, understanding funding and advisory connections, and identifying where capabilities are lacking.
Such a map can inform targeted actions: calls for proposals can address gaps, public funding can build shared infrastructure, and buyers can diversify their sources. Philanthropy can support broader learning, while regulators can pinpoint where standards need to be strengthened. Ultimately, a living map serves as public infrastructure, guiding decision-makers to fill gaps, prevent duplication, and foster effective deployment of CDR technologies.
Original Story at kleinmanenergy.upenn.edu