Exploratory study into responsible carbon dioxide removal

Carbon dioxide removal (CDR) is currently a top priority for governments and policymakers in their efforts to achieve a carbon dioxide neutral society in a timely manner. However, the potential for large-scale deployment of such new technologies also raises many questions, particularly regarding their possible negative ecological and social impacts. Commissioned by KIN, the University of Twente, in collaboration with Deltares and Delft University of Technology, is conducting a study to explore whether and how CDR could be deployed responsibly and within planetary boundaries.

Research question

The KIN has launched an exploratory study to investigate whether and how CDR could be deployed responsibly and within planetary boundaries, and which technologies would be most suitable for this purpose. The University of Twente, in collaboration with Deltares and Delft University of Technology, launched this exploratory study in March. The central question is:

What is required to steer the development and upscaling of large-scale carbon dioxide removal technologies in such a way that they will have a net positive effect on our environment?

No fewer than 12 researchers from the three institutions involved are carrying out this exploratory study, drawing on their specific expertise in technological, ecological (geospatial) and social aspects respectively. In addition to a literature review and interviews with various experts, a workshop on this issue will be organised in May. The aim is to complete the study by June 2026. The study will form the basis for a follow-up process in which KIN may open a Knowledge-in-Action grant on this theme.

Workshop on responsible carbon dioxide removal, May 12, 2026

Can large-scale carbon dioxide removal (CDR) be implemented in a responsible and climate-just manner to achieve a carbon dioxide neutral society?

This question was the focus of a workshop at the University of Twente (UT) on May 12, 2026, which was attended by more than 30 participants from the fields of research, policy and practice. UT is conducting an exploratory study on this topic in collaboration with Deltares and Delft University of Technology.

Report on responsible scaling up of CDR in the Netherlands

How can carbon dioxide removal be scaled up responsibly in a way that does justice to our social and ecological systems?

The report ‘What could responsible carbon dioxide removal look like in the Netherlands? An exploratory study with recommendations for research and governance‘, published by the University of Twente, Delft University of Technology and Deltares, addresses this question.

The report makes it clear that there are still many questions to be answered before the Netherlands can achieve a responsible, equitable and environmentally friendly scaling up of CDR. In addition to six principles for a responsible CDR policy, the report offers five recommendations for further research to address identified knowledge gaps.

Download report

Download summary report (English)

Download summary report (Dutch)