New CDRterra Synthesis Highlights Urgent Need to Accelerate CO₂ Removal in Germany

Germany will not meet its 2045 climate-neutrality target without a rapid scale-up of carbon dioxide removal (CDR)—this is the central conclusion of the newly published Phase-1 synthesis from the LMU-coordinated research programme CDRterra, supported by Perspectives’ expert Dr. Malte Winkler.

The analysis, released as of December 9, 2025, brings together findings from more than 100 scientists across ten research projects. Their conclusion is clear: alongside deep emissions cuts, Germany must remove substantial quantities of CO₂ from the atmosphere to compensate for unavoidable residual emissions after 2045.

Land-based CDR can help – if barriers are removed

The teams assessed a broad portfolio of land-based CDR options, from afforestation and reforestation to agroforestry and carbon-farming practices. These methods could make meaningful contributions but currently face major legal and structural hurdles, such as land-use restrictions and limited long-term planning security for farmers.

New technologies are emerging, but need more time

The programme also examined innovative approaches, including artificial photosynthesis and CO₂-binding building materials based on minerals, biochar, or bio-based carbon fibres. While promising, these technologies still require further development before they can contribute at scale.

Infrastructure and societal buy-in are essential

The researchers emphasise that CO₂ removal is not only a technical challenge. It requires:

• infrastructure for CO₂ transport and storage, and

• broad societal engagement, including farmers, industry, local authorities, and the public.

This early involvement is crucial to securing acceptance and trust as CDR methods are scaled up.

Our CDR expert Dr. Malte Winkler emphasises the importance of fair and inclusive policy design:

“Fair and ethical CDR policy considers criteria such as efficiency, impacts on the environment and society, and fair decision-making and participation processes. It connects policy instruments with CDR technologies, involves relevant groups, and asks critical questions about the feasibility and desirability of different measures.”

A clear message: action must begin now

According to CDRterra, achieving climate neutrality will require fundamental changes in land use and agriculture, targeted investment in infrastructure, and clear political frameworks developed in close dialogue with society. Only then can ecological and social co-benefits be realised alongside climate protection.

Link to resources: 

• Factsheet: “Potenziale und Risiken der landbasierten CO₂-Entnahme in Deutschland: was wir jetzt wissen – und was zu tun ist” (in German)
• Summary of findings (in German)
• Read more on CDRterra’s website