Carbon removals

Carbon removals are activities aimed at removing carbon dioxide (CO₂) from the atmosphere and storing it durably in natural or technological reservoirs, thereby contributing to climate change mitigation.

Unlike emission reductions, which focus on decreasing the amount of greenhouse gases generated, removals capture CO₂ that has already been emitted. They are a key pillar of climate neutrality and net zero strategies, particularly for addressing the residual emissions that are hardest to eliminate.

Types of carbon removals

There are two main categories:

1. Nature-based solutions

• Reforestation and afforestation
• Agricultural soil restoration (carbon farming)
• Wetland and ecosystem restoration

These are closely linked to the concept of carbon sinks and nature-based solutions.

2. Technological solutions

• Direct Air Capture (DAC)
• Bioenergy with Carbon Capture and Storage (BECCS)
• Carbon mineralisation

The quality of a removal depends on factors such as storage permanence, additionality, verifiability and the risk of reversal.

Regulatory framework

In Europe, carbon removals are gaining importance within sustainability frameworks and voluntary carbon markets. The European Union has adopted the Carbon Removals and Carbon Farming Certification Framework (CRCF) to establish common quality and transparency criteria. Standards such as the SBTi Corporate Net-Zero Standard also set rules on how removals may be used towards net-zero claims.

Why removals matter for companies

• They complement decarbonisation plans.
• They help manage residual emissions within net-zero strategies.
• They strengthen credibility with investors and regulators.
• They require robust traceability and verification to avoid reputational risk.

Without accurate carbon footprint measurement and a clear reduction strategy, removals should not replace decarbonisation, they are meant to complement it. Understanding the difference between reduction, offsetting and removal is essential to meet international standards and anticipate future requirements. At Manglai we help companies measure their carbon footprint and prepare their sustainability reporting. Discover how Manglai can help you.