Benefits of nature-based CDR solutions

Nature-based CDR solutions have significant co-benefits that we can only touch on here plus provide sources for further reading.

Here are some examples:

  • Regenerative Farming - Regenerative farming is an agricultural technique that focuses on the health of the soil. Treating soil organically, with natural products and less human disturbance, is key to avoiding CO2 emissions (e.g. associated with pesticides, herbicide and fertilizer manufacture) and to sequestering CO2. Regenerative farming reduces waste and organically increases soil fertility. (source)
  • Restoring wetlands - Bolsters local water resources, biodiversity, and flood prevention (source)
  • Carbon mineralization in the context of ocean alkalization - counteracts ocean acidification which is a huge problem causing the loss of entire ecosystems such as coral reefs. The effect of alkalization of the ocean as a larger ecosystem needs more research.
  • Planting trees - forestation has immense co-benefits beyond carbon storage such as increased biodiversity, it can improve local soil conditions, and reduce flooding and erosion - to name just a few. In an urban setting, trees enhance air quality and improve the urban heat island effect by reflecting sunlight and providing shade (source). In addition, forests can provide economic benefits to local communities and benefits to the people living around them by having a positive impact on mental health and wellbeing, reducing stress, and encouraging outdoor exercise (source).