A new Data for Progress survey assessed the extent of public knowledge on the topic of carbon dioxide removal (CDR), gathering feedback from 1,270 likely voters in the U.S.
Results from the survey showed that most of the respondents have never heard of CDR but have expressed support for its implementation after learning more about it.
This survey, authored by Catherine Fraser and Grace Adcox, was conducted at the end of January 2025, building on almost 5 years of research on carbon removal.
On the question of whether they have ever heard about CDR, 63% responded as having heard “nothing at all” about it, while 31% have heard a little and 7% knew a lot.
The ones who were familiar with the subject mostly indicated national television and social media as their sources of information.
Answers were classified according to the political views of respondents, where the small percentage that have heard about the topic came from a bipartisan background.
Before moving on to other questions, the survey provided participants with written information on climate change and the role of CDR. Having read through the text, 65% of voters (comprised of 70% of Democrats, 66% of Independents, and 57% of Republicans) stated they are in favor of CDR.
The survey also showed that 76% of respondents would support the construction of carbon removal projects in the U.S., while 73% would back the idea of CDR projects being developed in their state.
Relevant: New Study Says Enhanced Weathering Could Unlock Meaningful CDR In US Agriculture
The top 3 concerns voters expressed in regard to CDR are high costs for implementation, ineffectiveness in capturing CO2, and a disruption of the natural carbon processes on our planet.
On the other hand, the top 3 benefits voters expect to see from these technologies are environmental protection for future generations, improved environmental quality, and a meaningful climate action impact.
A strong majority of respondents voted that communities should be engaged in the development of CDR projects through different activities and workshops.
When asked for opinions on the Carbon Dioxide Removal Investment Act, a bipartisan majority of voters expressed support for this initiative.
Read more: New Bipartisan Legislation Supports mCDR Development In The US
