21
Nov
2023
Watch
Union certification framework for carbon removals (A9-0329/2023 - Lídia Pereira)
A Uachtaráin, I supported the carbon removal certification framework proposal that aims to establish an effective certification system for carbon removal and sequestration from the atmosphere. In the ITRE Committee, as the EPP rapporteur, I was strongly in favour of ensuring carbon farming would be eligible – an all-stick-no-carrot approach with the result if not including carbon farming. This, in my view, would not be fair to farmers all across Europe, who are trying to make their practices more sustainable, essentially incentivise rather than dictate. The main goal of this proposal is to encourage businesses with high emissions to adopt techniques and technologies for carbon removal. This is set to happen through the voluntary use of certificates, specifically designed certificates, that act as a proof of high-quality carbon removal. These certificates can be sold, creating new income opportunity for those in agriculture, forestry and industry, fostering a shift towards a more eco-friendly landscape. The aim of the certification framework is to support innovative carbon removal technologies and sustainable carbon farming solutions, while also cracking down on greenwashing, which I of course support.