The CDR Policy Scoop SHOWDOWN: Biochar vs Direct Air Capture - with Martin Freimüller
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Apr 7, 2025 In a lively debate, Martin Freimüller, Co-Founder and CEO of Octavia Carbon, champions Direct Air Capture (DAC) as a vital technology for carbon removal. He argues for its scalability and global potential, especially from Kenya. In response, biochar expert Sebastian Manhart highlights biochar's impressive durability and agricultural advantages. The discussion uncovers the challenges of scaling each solution, revealing audience preferences while emphasizing that both methods are essential for significant climate action. Tune in for an engaging clash of ideas!
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Decentralization Requires Strong MRV
- Martin warns decentralized, farm-level audits at scale will be hard and draws parallels to bioenergy failures; Sebastian counters with IoT and digital MRV tools.
- Both agree quality control and traceability determine whether decentralized biochar can scale credibly.
Policy Favors Insurable, Centralized Removals
- Martin explains EU preference for centralized, insurable removals like DAC/BECCS stems from past issues with credit quality and traceability.
- He suggests policymakers favor technologies with clearer monitoring, reporting, and verification pathways.
Path Dependency Drives CCS Emphasis
- Sebastian attributes policy bias toward CCS/DAC to path dependency and existing CCS infrastructure plans.
- He notes EU is moving to put biotrack removals on similar footing in some frameworks like the CSCF.