In a new study, the Clean Air Task Force (CATF) evaluates existing biomass carbon dioxide removal (CDR) protocols, finding a strong foundation for robust standards and the sustainable scaling of these technologies.
The study, called Strengthening Biomass Carbon Removal and Storage Protocols, was conducted by leading experts from research institutions.
These specialists joined forces in assessing 25 biomass CDR protocols, used for certifying carbon removal credits bought and sold in carbon markets as of May 1, 2025.
The publication notes that several of the evaluated protocols have been updated since then, yet older protocol versions are still relevant, as the credits certified under them continue to circulate on the market.
Analyzing the available data, the study confirms that biomass carbon removal has real potential for gigaton-level scale, and to turn this vision into reality, strong biomass CDR protocols are needed to ensure high-quality, credible carbon removal credits.
The study finds that 28% of the reviewed biomass CDR protocols received a satisfactory score, providing a solid foundation for comprehensive, robust standards.
However, the experts also highlight that all protocols contain at least one fundamentally flawed approach, and there is a wide range of different scores across the evaluated protocols.
This, the researchers point out, signals improvement opportunities and a need for greater consistency across biomass CDR standards.
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Stephanie Herbstritt, Senior Bioenergy Manager at CATF, explained, “Just over one-quarter of existing protocols scored satisfactory in our study—providing a solid foundation for robust standards. But all protocols have room for improvement. We also report a wide range of scores, pointing to the need for greater consistency across biomass CDR standards to ensure comparability of credits and deliver climate outcomes.”
To help address these issues, the publication outlines specific roadmaps for biomass CDR stakeholders, including governments, carbon credit registries, investors, and buyers.
The offered guidance aims to contribute toward strengthened protocols that would ensure biomass CDR is scaling sustainably and delivering the intended results.
The complete Strengthening Biomass Carbon Removal and Storage Protocols study can be found here.
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