Wil Burns: Responsible Carbon Removals

In this episode of Wicked Problems - Climate Tech Conversations, Richard Delevan interviews Wil Burns, Co-Director of the Institute for Responsible Carbon Removal at American University. They delve into the critical role of carbon removal technologies, exploring their evolution from fringe concepts to mainstream climate strategy. The discussion covers the science, ethics, and policies essential for implementing these technologies responsibly.Timestamps:02:46 - Wil Burns discusses his journey into carbon removal research and the importance of addressing carbon removal alongside decarbonization.05:19 - Urgency and Scale of Carbon RemovalThe necessity of large-scale carbon removal to meet Paris Agreement goals and the increasing urgency as emissions continue to rise.07:08 - Institute for Responsible Carbon RemovalWil explains the mission of the institute and the significance of the term "responsible" in carbon removal practices.10:05 - Criteria for Responsible Carbon RemovalThe importance of avoiding mitigation deterrence, ensuring real commitments, and focusing on equity and justice.13:56 - Challenges in Carbon Removal ImplementationDiscussing storage issues, pipeline expansions, and resistance from various communities.16:27 - Ocean-Based Carbon Removal ApproachesThe potential and challenges of ocean alkalinity enhancement and other ocean-based carbon removal methods.22:50 - Voluntary Carbon Markets and ComplianceThe future of voluntary carbon markets, the need for compliance markets, and the challenges in establishing robust methodologies under Article 6 of the Paris Agreement.29:31 - Geoengineering and Solar Radiation ModificationThe potential future conversations around geoengineering and solar radiation modification as climate impacts worsen.Resources and Links:Institute for Responsible Carbon RemovalPlan Sea PodcastCarbon 180Carbon PlanSubscribe & Support:Enjoyed the episode? Please leave us a rating and review on Apple Podcasts or Spotify.For ad-free episodes and exclusive content, consider becoming a subscriber at Wicked Problems - 30% off annual membership this week.Stay Connected:Follow us on Twitter and LinkedInSubscribe to our newsletter at Wicked Problems.Credits:Written and edited by Richard DelevanProduction assistance by Theo DelevanMusic by First Aid Kit - "Silver Lining" (check our playlist) Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.