All terms

Carbon Removal Credit

A carbon credit specifically generated from verified carbon removal activities.

What is a Carbon Removal Credit?

A Carbon Removal Credit is a specific type of carbon credit that represents one tonne of carbon dioxide equivalent (tCO₂e) that has been verifiably removed from the atmosphere and durably stored. Unlike credits from avoided emissions or emissions reduction projects, a removal credit signifies that CO₂ has been actively taken out of the air.

Why is a Carbon Removal Credit important?

Carbon removal credits are increasingly important for achieving net-zero targets, particularly for neutralizing residual emissions. They represent a more direct pathway to reducing atmospheric CO₂ concentrations compared to avoidance or reduction credits. As the focus shifts to actual removal, these credits are gaining prominence in the voluntary carbon market.

Related terms

Want to explore this topic further? Browse connected glossary terms below.

Carbon Credit

A transferable instrument representing one tonne of CO₂ equivalent reduced or removed.

Core definitions
Carbon Offset

A reduction or removal of greenhouse gases used to compensate for emissions elsewhere.

Core definitions
Carbon removal

Carbon removal refers to processes that actively take carbon dioxide out of the atmosphere and store it for the long term.

Core definitions

Frequently asked questions

How does a carbon removal credit differ from a regular carbon credit?

While both are carbon credits, a carbon removal credit specifically signifies *active removal* of CO₂ from the atmosphere, whereas a regular carbon credit might represent *avoided or reduced* emissions.

What are examples of projects that generate carbon removal credits?

Projects include direct air capture (DAC) with geological storage, bioenergy with carbon capture and storage (BECCS), enhanced weathering, biochar, and high-quality afforestation/reforestation with durable storage.

Why are carbon removal credits often more expensive?

Carbon removal technologies are often more nascent and capital-intensive than many avoided emissions projects, leading to higher costs per tonne of CO₂ removed.