EU launches carbon removal certification standards

February 04, 2026

The European Commission has officially approved the first set of certification methodologies under the Carbon Removals and Carbon Farming (CRCF) Regulation. These new standards are designed to verify activities that permanently remove carbon dioxide (CO₂) from the atmosphere, marking a major step forward in Europe’s climate strategy.

By introducing voluntary certification frameworks, the EU is establishing transparent rules that support climate innovation, attract private investment, and combat greenwashing. This initiative positions the European Union as a global frontrunner in carbon removal technologies and strengthens its pathway toward climate neutrality by 2050.

Certified carbon removal technologies covered by the new framework

The newly adopted methodologies apply to three advanced and scalable carbon removal solutions selected for their technological readiness and environmental impact:

• Direct Air Capture with Carbon Storage (DACCS)

• Biogenic Carbon Capture and Storage (BioCCS)

• Biochar Carbon Removal (BCR)

These technologies play a vital role in permanently storing atmospheric carbon, contributing to long-term emissions reduction.

European Commissioner for Climate, Net-Zero and Clean Growth, Wopke Hoekstra, emphasized that these standards will help Europe lead international efforts in carbon removal while creating a reliable benchmark for sustainable climate action worldwide.

Carbon removal projects can now apply for EU certification

With governance rules and certification criteria now in place, project developers using DACCS, BioCCS, and biochar technologies are eligible to apply for EU-wide certification. This transition from policy development to real-world implementation enables the first verified carbon removal projects to enter the market in the coming months.

Certified projects will gain official recognition under the EU carbon removal framework, increasing transparency and credibility across the sector.

Establishing a european standard for permanent carbon removals

The adopted methodologies define clear, legally supported requirements for permanent carbon removal. They specify:

• How one tonne of carbon removal is measured

• How long-term storage must be guaranteed

• How environmental risks, leakages, and liabilities are managed

Together, these rules form the European Union’s first unified standard for permanent carbon removals. This framework provides much-needed certainty for businesses, investors, and innovators operating in this fast-growing market.

By aligning with existing EU climate laws, the system maintains strong environmental integrity while minimizing administrative burdens.

Regulatory timeline and approval process

The delegated regulation will now be reviewed by the European Parliament and the Council of the EU during a two-month scrutiny period, which may be extended. If no objections are raised, publication in the Official Journal is expected in early April, followed by entry into force 20 days later.

Upcoming certification methodologies (expected in 2026)

The European Commission is also preparing two additional certification frameworks, scheduled for adoption in 2026:

1. Carbon Farming and Land Management

These methodologies will support activities such as:

• Sustainable agriculture

• Agroforestry

• Peatland restoration

• Afforestation

They will enable farmers and forest managers to receive performance-based payments, diversify income, and transition toward more climate-resilient practices.

2. Carbon Storage in Bio-Based Construction

New standards will help assess carbon storage in bio-based building materials, allowing property owners to verify climate performance and encouraging circular bioeconomy practices in construction.

Boosting the voluntary carbon market

To accelerate market development, the Commission has announced the creation of an EU Buyers’ Club for permanent carbon removals and carbon farming. This initiative, introduced under the EU Bioeconomy Strategy, aims to stimulate both public and private investment.

Additional financial support is provided through programs such as the European Innovation Council and the Innovation Fund, helping innovative carbon removal projects scale more rapidly.

Background: the CRCF regulation explained

The CRCF Regulation (EU Regulation 2024/3012) establishes Europe’s first unified voluntary system for certifying:

• Carbon removals

• Carbon farming

• Carbon storage in bio-based products

Implementation is carried out through delegated acts that define technical certification methodologies.

This framework follows the adoption of Implementing Regulation (EU) 2025/2358, which outlines requirements for certification bodies, audit procedures, and compliance systems.

Certification scheme recognition process

Once the delegated acts take effect, certification providers may apply for official recognition by the European Commission. Each application will be evaluated using a standardized assessment protocol published by DG CLIMA.

This review process ensures compliance with all regulatory and technical requirements before schemes are approved.

Expert consultation and transparency

The permanent carbon removal methodologies were developed in close cooperation with the Carbon Removal Expert Group. All supporting documents and meeting recordings are publicly accessible on the European Commission’s website, ensuring transparency and stakeholder engagement.

Building trust in carbon removal markets

The new certification standards include strict rules for measuring, verifying, and maintaining carbon storage over time. These safeguards promote sustainability, accountability, and long-term climate benefits.

By strengthening confidence in verified carbon removal practices, the EU is creating the foundation for sustained investment and responsible market growth.