Reversing Climate Change 381: Carbon Removal's False Peak as mapped by Noah Deich
Jan 9, 2026
Noah Deich, a leader in carbon removal and the founding executive director of Carbon180, explores the complexities of scaling carbon removal efforts. He discusses his work with the Stripe Climate Fellows to create government-focused market commitments. The conversation delves into the need for credible demand signals from governments to attract investment, the challenges posed by national interests, and the delicate balance between free trade and domestic industry building. Noah also highlights the risks of supply outpacing demand and the pivotal role of policy in driving carbon removal solutions.
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The False Peak Realization
- Noah and Ross describe the field's 'false peak' moment after initial optimism.
- They realized early wins revealed a much larger mountain left to climb in commercializing carbon removal.
Policy Signals Unlock Private Capital
- Governments must send clear, bankable demand signals to unlock private investment in carbon removal.
- Without that policy signal, investors and buyers hesitate and the industry cannot reach commercial scale.
Build Proof Through Commercial Projects
- Do focus on building commercial projects that produce credible data on costs and performance.
- Use those projects to prove downward cost trajectories and attract follow-on investment and buyers.