New Engineered Removals Requirements set rigorous standards for carbon removal certification
Updated methodologies now cover mineral waste, BECCS, and fermentation-based CDR
All projects must contribute to at least three SDGs and follow robust safeguards
Gold Standard Targets Integrity in Engineered Carbon Removals
Gold Standard has released its new Engineered Removals Activity Requirements, a comprehensive framework designed to ensure high-integrity carbon dioxide removal (CDR) projects meet rigorous sustainability, reversals, and monitoring standards. The framework defines key principles for engineered removals, including: reversal risk mitigation, mandatory buffer contributions, and alignment with EU’s CRCF, ICAO CORSIA, Article 6.4, and national policies.
“Accurate measurement and the responsible use of removal credits are essential,” said Dr. Fiona Perera, Methodology Development Manager at Gold Standard and SBTi Removals Expert Working Group member.
Methodologies Updated and Expanded
Two methodologies have just been updated (June 2025):
– Carbon Mineralisation (with Neustark): Now includes more mineral types and improved baselines
– Biomass Fermentation with CCS (with Summit Carbon): Broader applicability to BECCS and industrial sources
Gold Standard’s first engineered CDR methodology, focused on concrete carbonation, was launched in 2022 with initial credits issued in April 2024.
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“We invite developers to use these requirements and work with us to build new methodologies,” said Margaret Kim, CEO of Gold Standard.
What’s Next
A biochar methodology is underway, spanning artisan to industrial-scale systems. All projects must support at least three SDGs. A new Just and Sustainable Transitions Framework is being developed to deepen community impact. Developers are encouraged to submit concept notes for new engineered CDR solutions.
“Engineered removals are essential to achieving a 1.5 °C pathway. We are applying the same integrity we’ve brought to biological removals for two decades,” said Kim.
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