Is Carbon Removal Just Greenwashing? | Net Zero, Offsets & The EU Crackdown

Can companies really buy their way to ‘net zero’ or is carbon removal becoming the next big greenwashing tool? In this episode of The Sustainability Side, I break down how carbon removal works, why climate science says we still need it, and where it crosses the line into greenwashing. We look at fresh case studies from Microsoft doubling its carbon removal deals to 45 million tonnes in 2025, to Stripe and Shopify backing ultra‑high‑cost, early‑stage removal projects and what new EU rules banning ‘climate neutral’ claims based on offsets mean for corporate net‑zero strategies. You’ll also hear how carbon removal connects to the UN Sustainable Development Goals, why the ‘carbon removal ambition gap’ matters, and how emerging markets like India can design high‑integrity carbon markets that avoid past scandals. By the end, you’ll know how to read carbon neutrality claims more critically as a consumer, a sustainability professional, or a policymaker. In this episode, we cover:What carbon removal (CDR) actually is – nature‑based and engineered solutions. Why IPCC and UNEP scenarios say we still need removal after deep emissions cuts. How low‑quality offsets and temporary storage create greenwashing risks. Microsoft’s 45 Mt carbon removal portfolio and what it signals for the market. Stripe, Shopify and the Frontier model: paying 200–1,300+ USD/t for durable removals. EU rules banning ‘climate neutral’ claims based purely on offsetting by 2026. SDG links, justice concerns and what good, high‑integrity carbon removal looks like. Join the Conversation: If this helped you decode net‑zero and offset claims, please share this episode with someone working on ESG or climate strategy. Scroll down to the Q&A section in your Spotify app and let me know: What is one example of carbon removal you think is credible – and one you’re skeptical about? I may feature your answers in a future episode! Host: Dr. Sama A#CarbonRemoval #Greenwashing #NetZero #CarbonOffsets #ClimateAction #Sustainability #ESG #SDGs #EURegulation #Microsoft #Stripe #Shopify