University experts discuss challenges and opportunities in carbon dioxide removal strategies

In the ongoing global effort to combat climate change, carbon dioxide removal (CDR) has become a significant strategy. Methods like direct air capture, bioenergy, and soil carbon sequestration are considered essential for reducing emissions in sectors such as agriculture and air transportation. However, despite its potential, CDR faces challenges including high costs and energy-intensive processes.

Recent studies emphasize the urgency of accelerating carbon removal efforts to meet Paris Agreement targets. Two experts from the University of Houston provide their insights on CDR's role in the energy transition.

Tracy Hester, an associate instructional professor of law at UH Law Center, highlights the importance of policy in facilitating CDR efforts. "Without policy incentives and help with regulatory roadblocks, carbon dioxide removal simply won’t happen as quickly as we need," Hester notes. He emphasizes that government policies should offer financial incentives for gas capture while protecting vulnerable communities from disruption.

Hester also discusses the implications of CDR for climate justice. "CDR could have deep implications for climate justice, but it all depends on how we approach it," he explains. The placement of industrial machinery in vulnerable communities could exacerbate existing issues unless addressed thoughtfully.

Mim Rahimi, an assistant professor of environmental engineering at UH Cullen College of Engineering, focuses on research support for CDR technologies. He advocates for exploring ocean-based CDRs due to their potential benefits over land-based methods. "Support should focus on existing technologies, such as direct air capture, as well as emerging technologies," Rahimi states.

Rahimi's lab is working on electrochemically driven direct ocean capture processes that offer scalability and cost-effectiveness. Regarding market opportunities for captured carbon dioxide, he identifies enhanced oil recovery as a primary application along with uses in cement production and agriculture.

Both experts underscore the necessity of advancing CDR technologies through supportive policies and innovative research to achieve decarbonization goals effectively.