A leading climate scientist is advocating for a significant expansion of technologies aimed at removing greenhouse gases directly from the atmosphere, arguing that surpassing the globally recognized 1.5-degree Celsius warming threshold is now unavoidable. Ottmar Edenhofer, Director and Chief Economist of the Potsdam Institute for Climate Impact Research (PIK), stated in a recent interview that while drastic emissions reductions remain vital, so too is the incorporation of “negative emissions” into comprehensive climate policy.
Edenhofer emphasized that alongside reductions in emissions and adaptation measures, the active removal of greenhouse gases must become a central pillar of climate protection strategies. He highlighted the potential of natural methods, such as reforestation and the restoration of peatlands, alongside the limited-availability technology known as Carbon Capture and Storage (CCS). Developing both the technological capacity and the regulatory frameworks to support these negative emissions initiatives is considered crucial for future investment.
The PIK director also suggested a degree of flexibility regarding the allocation of free emissions certificates for industry. Edenhofer indicated that maintaining this allocation for certain sectors facing immediate pressure could be prudent.
Further complicating the picture, Edenhofer voiced concern regarding a resurgence in coal consumption globally, predicting it will persist for years to come. He suggested that wealthier nations could facilitate this transition by providing financial support to help other countries phase out coal use. This, he believes, would be a beneficial strategy for those nations.
