Essential: Carbon removals key to achieving net zero

Thursday 30 May 2024

Are you ready to become a Net Hero? This week, we had the privilege of speaking with Simon Manley, the Head of Carbon at UNDO, a pioneering carbon removal company, as part of our exclusive Big Zero Briefing. Simon shared insights on the evolution of carbon offsetting and its crucial role in achieving net zero targets.

‘If you wait till the last minute to engage with carbon removals, you risk falling short of your targets,’ Simon advised. ‘Being on a net zero pathway means integrating carbon removal strategies. Once your company has decarbonised to its maximum capacity, the next step is to actively remove any remaining carbon emissions from daily operations. Delaying action until the eleventh hour will only lead to supply shortages in the carbon removal marketplace. Organizations must act now to secure a reliable supply.’

UNDO employs a groundbreaking technique called enhanced rock weathering to remove carbon from the atmosphere. This process involves accelerating a natural reaction between rain, CO2, and specific types of rock. By spreading finely ground silicate rock, such as basalt, UNDO facilitates chemical reactions that effectively capture carbon dioxide.

Simon highlighted the careful growth of the carbon removal sector, emphasizing the importance of credibility and integrity. ‘The early years of carbon offsetting were marred by project failures and misinformation,’ he explained. ‘To differentiate itself from traditional offsetting practices, the carbon removal sector is committed to upholding strict standards and guidelines set forth by reputable organizations.’

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