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Free keywords:
carbon removal, climate mitigation, research funding, innovation
Abstract:
In addition to strong global emission cuts, experts see the rapid upscaling of carbon dioxide removal
(CDR) as paramount for reaching the Paris agreement target. A comprehensive view of research and
innovation dynamics is crucial for the rigorous assessment of the potentials of CDR options and for
guiding strategies to close knowledge gaps. Here, we investigate funding patterns in CDR research
across time, geographies and fields of research and identify key organizations and actors in
collaboration networks. We use comprehensive search queries and machine learning to identify more
than 6000 research grants on twelve different CDR options. Research funding increased strongly over
the past 30 years (21% p.a.), more than funding for climate science and technology. In comparison to
carbon capture and storage, CDR receives a higher number of grants, but less total funding, estimated
at 4.2 bn$. Funding is highly concentrated in Europe and North America and mostly directed towards
natural, engineering and agricultural science, with little but increasing support for social science.
European funding seems to encourage research in larger consortia. However, our analysis finds little
funding specifically targeted at CDR, highlighting potentials for strategic initiatives for accelerating
innovation in CDR.
