As global temperatures continue to rise, surpassing targets set by the 2015 Paris Agreement, carbon removal technologies have become essential in the fight against climate change.
Carbon removal, also known as carbon dioxide removal (CDR) or negative emissions technologies (NETs), refers to the process of capturing and storing carbon dioxide (CO2) from the atmosphere. It aims to mitigate climate change by actively reducing atmospheric CO2 levels, which is a primary cause of global warming. This can be achieved through both natural and technological methods.
Key Carbon Removal Technologies
- Direct Air Capture (DAC): Companies like Climeworks have advanced DAC technology, exemplified by their “Mammoth” facility in Iceland, capable of capturing up to 36,000 tons of CO₂ annually. This CO₂ is then mineralized and stored underground, offering a scalable solution for atmospheric carbon reduction.
- Biochar: Produced by converting biomass into a stable form of carbon, biochar can be stored in soil for centuries. It’s a cost-effective method suitable for small-scale applications, particularly in agriculture, enhancing soil health while sequestering carbon.
- Mineralization: Companies like Deep Sky in Canada are developing in-situ mineralization processes, injecting CO₂ into underground rock formations where it reacts to form stable minerals, effectively locking away carbon permanently.
XPRIZE Carbon Removal Winners
In 2025, the XPRIZE Carbon Removal competition, funded by Elon Musk’s Musk Foundation, awarded $100 million to innovative carbon removal solutions:
- Mati Carbon received the $50 million grand prize for its enhanced rock weathering technique. By spreading finely crushed basalt over agricultural lands in India and Africa, Mati accelerates natural weathering processes that permanently remove atmospheric CO₂. This approach not only sequesters carbon but also improves soil health and boosts crop yields for smallholder farmers.
- UNDO was awarded $5 million as a runner-up for its work in enhanced rock weathering. Operating in Scotland and Canada, UNDO accelerates the natural process of rock weathering to permanently remove atmospheric CO₂ and enhance soil fertility.
Corporate Initiatives
Major corporations are investing in carbon removal projects. For instance, Microsoft, despite a rise in its carbon footprint due to AI expansion, is funding initiatives like direct air capture and biochar to offset emissions and meet sustainability goals.
The carbon removal market is projected to grow significantly and policies supporting carbon capture and storage are being implemented globally, encouraging the development and deployment of these technologies.
Climate and Tourism: Navigating Sustainability in 2025
Tourism is both affected by and contributes to climate change. In 2025, sustainable tourism practices are increasingly vital to protect ecosystems and support local communities.
Mass tourism has led to the overexploitation of ecologically sensitive areas, particularly in the Global South. Changing weather patterns and climate-linked disasters have been triggered in these regions. To address this, destinations are adopting measures like limiting visitor numbers and implementing eco-friendly infrastructure.
Innovative Approaches
- Eco-Friendly Accommodations: The Flamingo Lodge in Florida’s Everglades National Park exemplifies resilient design, constructed from repurposed materials and elevated to withstand extreme weather events.
- Green Fees: Hawaii has introduced a “Green Fee,” increasing hotel and vacation rental taxes to fund climate resilience projects, including beach restoration and wildfire prevention.
- Sustainable Travel Initiatives: Organizations like Travalyst, supported by Prince Harry, are promoting standardized carbon emission disclosures for travel, enabling consumers to make environmentally conscious choices.
Integrating sustainability into tourism is essential for preserving natural and cultural heritage. By adopting eco-friendly practices and policies, the tourism industry can contribute to climate change mitigation while ensuring the longevity of destinations worldwide.
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