As climate change increases, it is not enough to cut only emissions of carbon dioxide (CO₂) but also actively remove it from the atmosphere. Carbon Dioxide Removal (CDR) technologies have emerged as a powerful option to combat global warming. It can offset hard-to-abate emissions from aviation, agriculture, and cement production. With a commitment to innovative and nature-inspired solutions, Algreen combines next-generation green air purifier systems for cleaner air and a sustainable future. This integration improves air quality and ensures long-term carbon reduction that makes our environment healthy.
What Are Carbon Dioxide Removal (CDR) Technologies?
CDR describes a variety of technologies and techniques designed to remove CO₂ from the atmosphere and sequester it in stable, long-term carbon storage. These technologies can be broadly classified in two ways:
Nature-Based Solutions
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Afforestation & Reforestation –
Planting trees in deforested areas to absorb CO₂ naturally.
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Biochar –
Converting organic waste into carbon-rich material that, when incorporated into soil, retains carbon for centuries.
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Enhanced Weathering –
Using minerals like basalt to accelerate natural CO₂ absorption from the air and oceans.
Engineered Solutions
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Direct Air Capture (DAC) –
Machines that pull CO2 directly from the air and store it underground or convert it into useful products.
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Bioenergy with Carbon Capture and Storage (BECCS) –
Using biomass for energy and permanently storing the emitted CO₂.
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Ocean-Based CDR –
Strategies such as farming seaweed and increasing ocean alkalinity can increase the ocean's ability to absorb CO2.
In 2023, CDR capacity was estimated by the World Economic Forum to have reached 41 megatons of CO₂ per year globally; however, to achieve net-zero objectives, this need be scaled up by 25-100 times to range from 1-1.5 gigatons by 2030.
How CDR Technologies Improve Air Quality
Many natural and engineered methods work similarly to plants that are natural air purifiers and reduce pollutants to make air healthy. However, CDR focuses on long-term climate benefits, but these technologies also have immediate air quality advantages.
1. Urban Air Purification
Biochar, tree planting, algae-based filtration-based techniques, etc., benefit green air purifier systems using microalgae as air filtration systems in reducing CO2, nitrogen oxides (NOx), and other emissions in cities. Even some green air purifier techniques use microalgae for natural pollutant filtration.
2. Enhancing Indoor Air Quality
CDR principles can be applied to indoor air purification, where bio-inspired purifiers mimic plants that are natural air purifiers by absorbing toxins and increasing oxygen levels. Algae-based systems, such as the one developed by Algreen Tech, are promoting this approach.
3. Industrial Carbon Capture for Cleaner Air
Industries such as cement and steel production are really integrating CDR for source mitigation of various emissions into the atmosphere without damaging the air quality. Companies are trying to find ways to combine industrial CDR with urban air purification initiatives that can effectively contribute to sustainable climate goals.
Challenges & The Path to Scaling CDR
Despite their potential, CDR technologies face significant hurdles:
High Costs:
DAC costs $200-600 per ton of CO2 removed, making affordability a major challenge. Technologies such as biochar ($80-200 per ton) are more cost-effective, but feedstock availability is limited.
Energy Requirements:
DAC and BECCS require large amounts of renewable energy, which must be sourced sustainably.
Monitoring & Verification:
Advanced tracking systems are needed to ensure long-term CO₂ storage. The WEF First Movers Coalition is pushing for strict measurement standards.
Environmental Concerns:
Some ocean-based CDR methods, such as fertilisation, may disrupt marine ecosystems. Careful assessment is needed before large-scale deployment.
Progress is being made despite these barriers. The U.S. Department of Energy (DOE) has dedicated $3.5 billion for scaling up DAC (Direct Air Capture) hubs, and the European Union is developing a CRCF (Carbon Removal Certification Framework) to regulate removals and track accountability.
The Future of Carbon Removal & Clean Air
The path to net-zero emissions will require a mix of natural, engineered, and hybrid solutions. We can tackle both climate change and urban air pollution in a sustainable manner by integrating CDR with air purification technologies.
Algreen believes in the integration of innovation with nature. We are committed to a clean and healthy future through green air purifier systems, algae-based carbon capture, and support of the latest CDR research. Let’s breathe cleaner air and build a sustainable world with innovation.
