The Carbon Curve

Episode 60 is a special ask me anything style episode with Na’im Merchant and Rahima DosaniIn this annual “flip the script” episode of The Carbon Curve, Na’im is back in the hot seat as his wife Rahima Dosani interviews him AMA-style to reflect on the past year in carbon removal and life outside of work.The conversation starts with personal (and intentionally uncomfortable) questions—turning 40, parenting two young kids, and hard-earned life lessons—before zooming out to the state of carbon removal in 2025. Na’im shares why 2025 felt like a year of renewal at Carbon Removal Canada, what climate pullback has meant for the sector, why he’s even less patient than last year with narratives that dismiss carbon removal as a “distraction”, and the people who inspire him in the carbon removal community.In this episode, Na’im and Rahima discuss:* Turning 40: practical life lessons and hot takes* Parenting a 3.5-year-old and 1.5-year-old and why year two can feel harder than year one.* Why 2025 felt like “renewal” at Carbon Removal Canada* What climate pullback is changing: a shift from targets and rhetoric toward delivery, results, and co-benefits.* 2025 carbon removal highlights: record contracting volumes, the XPRIZE outcomes, and policy momentum in Europe* Leadership lessons and people who have inspired Na’im in 2025Relevant links* Carbon Removal Canada and registration link for Carbon Removal Day (March 5th in Ottawa)* The Carbon Console tracking 12+ megatonnes of carbon removal projects in Canada* Tank Chen and team’s excellent work over at CDR.fyi tracking sales and deliveries* XPRIZE Carbon Removal winners Mati Carbon* Vaclav Smil white paper on physical infrastructure transition* Erin Burns Substack (Carbon180 Executive Director)* Sebastian Manhart, the CDR Policy Scoop podcast, and Gigaten Monthly newsletter* Robert Höglund on carbon removal as mitigation, not a last resort * Chris Neidl (High-Level Climate Champions) and Chris Sherwood (The Negative Emissions Platform) on getting carbon removal on the COP agenda and its own pavilionAbout Rahima DosaniRahima Dosani is the Director of Strategy, Learning, and Innovation at Global Health Visions, a women-owned global health consulting firm . She previously worked at USAID’s Center for Innovation and Impact and the Clinton Health Access Initiative, with experience in Myanmar and Malawi, after starting her career in strategy consulting in New York City .Rahima holds a BA from the University of Pennsylvania, an MBA from Harvard Business School, and a Master’s in Public Health from the Harvard T.H. Chan School of Public Health .About Na’im MerchantNa’im Merchant is the co-founder and Executive Director of Carbon Removal Canada, a policy initiative focused on scaling carbon removal in Canada . He publishes The Carbon Curve newsletter and hosts The Carbon Curve podcast, exploring the people, policies, and technologies needed to scale carbon removal globally.This episode was made possible thanks to the generous support of the Consecon Foundation.This episode was created and published by Na’im Merchant. Episode production and content support provided by Tank Chen.Na’im Merchant is the co-founder and Executive Director of Carbon Removal Canada, a policy initiative focused on scaling carbon removal in Canada. He is on the advisory board of the Carbon Removal Standards Initiative and Terraset, and a former policy fellow with Elemental Impact. He previously ran carbon removal consulting practice Carbon Curve, and publishes The Carbon Curve newsletter and podcast. Every two weeks, Na’im will release a short interview with individuals advancing the policies, technologies, and collective action needed to scale up carbon removal around the world.Tank Chen is the Head of Content and Community at CDR.fyi, a public benefit corporation dedicated to accelerating carbon removal through transparency. He is also the co-founder of CDRjobs, a career platform for the carbon removal industry. Based in Taiwan, Tank is a carbon removal advocate focused on educating policymakers, corporate leaders, and the public on the importance of carbon removal, using data-driven insights to support communication and policy advocacy.If you enjoyed this episode, please subscribe to this podcast on your favorite podcast app or subscribe via The Carbon Curve newsletter here. If you’d like to get in touch with Na’im, you can reach out via LinkedIn. This is a public episode. If you would like to discuss this with other subscribers or get access to bonus episodes, visit carboncurve.substack.com

Episode 59 is with Rory Brown, Co-Founder & CEO at AirhiveIn this episode, Na’im speaks with Rory about his journey into carbon removal technology with a focus on direct air capture (DAC). Other major themes include the importance of financing, the policy landscape for carbon removal in different regions, and the need for transparency about DAC costs.In this episode, Na’im and Rory discuss:* Rory’s transition to climate and DAC* The founding and growth of Airhive, including their technology and team* Key features and operational efficiency of Airhive’s DAC technology* The operational progress of their 1,000 tonne per year commercial demonstrator in Alberta, Canada* The main barriers to scaling DAC and how Airhive addresses these challenges* The complexity and transparency issues around the cost of DAC* Future projections and cost reduction goals for DAC technology* The benefits and opportunities of deploying DAC technology in Alberta, Canada* The role of policy in shaping the global development of carbon removal technologies* Airhive’s plans for future projects, including CO2 supply for industrial processes and further R&D advancementsRelevant Links:* Airhive - Website* List of Airhive’s current and upcoming projects - Webpage* The launch of Airhive’s operation at Deep Sky Alpha - Article* More details and registration for Carbon Removal Day 2026 (in-person only)About Rory Brown and Airhive:Rory is the CEO of Airhive, which he co-founded in 2022 after nearly a decade and a half in international affairs. Airhive is a London, England-based DAC developer. Founded in 2022 by Rory and CTO Dr. Jasper Wong, Airhive are a team of 15 engineers and operators with active pilot and commercial projects in the UK, Canada, EU and Asia-Pacific. An XPRIZE Carbon Removal Finalist, they recently announced they have begun capturing CO2 from their 1,000 tonne per year commercial demonstrator at the Deep Sky Alpha facility in Alberta, Canada.This episode was made possible thanks to the generous support of the Consecon Foundation.This episode was created and published by Na’im Merchant. Episode production and content support provided by Tank Chen.Na’im Merchant is the co-founder and Executive Director of Carbon Removal Canada, a policy initiative focused on scaling carbon removal in Canada. He is on the advisory board of the Carbon Removal Standards Initiative and Terraset, and a former policy fellow with Elemental Impact. He previously ran carbon removal consulting practice Carbon Curve, and publishes The Carbon Curve newsletter and podcast. Every two weeks, Na’im will release a short interview with individuals advancing the policies, technologies, and collective action needed to scale up carbon removal around the world.Tank Chen is the Head of Content and Community at CDR.fyi, a public benefit corporation dedicated to accelerating carbon removal through transparency. He is also the co-founder of CDRjobs, a career platform for the carbon removal industry. Based in Taiwan, Tank is a carbon removal advocate focused on educating policymakers, corporate leaders, and the public on the importance of carbon removal, using data-driven insights to support communication and policy advocacy.If you enjoyed this episode, please subscribe to this podcast on your favorite podcast app or subscribe via The Carbon Curve newsletter here. If you’d like to get in touch with Na’im, you can reach out via LinkedIn. This is a public episode. If you would like to discuss this with other subscribers or get access to bonus episodes, visit carboncurve.substack.com

Episode 58 is with Marc Roston (Stanford’s Precourt Institute for Energy) and Peter Minor (Absolute Climate)This episode features Marc Roston, senior research scholar at Stanford’s Precourt Institute for Energy, and Peter Minor, co-founder of Absolute Climate. They explore fundamental flaws undermining voluntary carbon markets, focusing on how carbon credits are accounted and valued. Mark explains challenges like the “original sin” of credit retirement, custody issues, and fungibility differences among carbon removal types. Together, they discuss a new concept of carbon delivery companies as long-term counterparties to enhance accountability and trust. The dialogue highlights the urgent need to align carbon market practices with the realities of durable climate impact and robust financial frameworks.In this episode, Na’im, Peter, and Marc discuss:* The problems with current carbon accounting and credit retirement;* The distinction between emissions reductions and carbon removals;* The concept of carbon delivery companies and long-term liabilities, and the need for fungibility in carbon credit markets;* Solutions for aligning short-term and long-term carbon liabilities;* Emission liability management as a core concept to improve carbon markets* The necessity of differentiating between avoidance and removal credits in trading markets* Experimentation in policy and trading to create a reliable market infrastructure for carbon removalRelevant links:* The Market That Won’t Trade: Fixing Structural Failures in the Spot Market for Carbon Removals - Paper* What’s next after carbon accounting? Emissions liability management - PaperAccounting for Climate Change - Article* Sustainable Finance Initiative - Website* Absolute Climate - WebsiteAbout Marc:Marc Roston is a Senior Research Scholar at the Precourt Institute for Energy in the Stanford Doerr School of Sustainability where he leads research efforts in carbon accounting and carbon markets, financial institution transitions and climate-related insurance markets. He’s also a Senior Fellow at the E-ledgers Institute, where he’s been helping to define the concept of E-liabilities. Prior to joining Stanford in 2020, Roston spent 25 years in the asset management industry where he held senior investment positions in quantitative finance, private equity, and advisory services. He earned a PhD in Economics from the University of Chicago and a B.S. in Economics at Carnegie Mellon University.About Peter:Peter Minor is a co-founder of Absolute Climate, which is building independent standards that apply universal assessment criteria to all CDR pathways. A veteran of the carbon removal industry, he previously served as the Director of Science & Innovation at Carbon180. While there, he contributed to the development of key programs like the DOE Regional DAC Hubs, and pioneered core principles required for high-accountability MRV. A UC Berkeley Mechanical Engineering PhD by training, he applies his expertise in sensors, numerical modeling, and carbon removal science towards building the MRV solutions needed to unlock gigaton scale.This episode was made possible thanks to the generous support of the Consecon Foundation.This episode was created and published by Na’im Merchant. Episode production and content support provided by Tank Chen.Na’im Merchant is the co-founder and Executive Director of Carbon Removal Canada, a policy initiative focused on scaling carbon removal in Canada. He is on the advisory board of the Carbon Removal Standards Initiative and Terraset, and a former policy fellow with Elemental Impact. He previously ran carbon removal consulting practice Carbon Curve, and publishes The Carbon Curve newsletter and podcast. Every two weeks, Na’im will release a short interview with individuals advancing the policies, technologies, and collective action needed to scale up carbon removal around the world.Tank Chen is the Head of Content and Community at CDR.fyi, a public benefit corporation dedicated to accelerating carbon removal through transparency. He is also the co-founder of CDRjobs, a career platform for the carbon removal industry. Based in Taiwan, Tank is a carbon removal advocate focused on educating policymakers, corporate leaders, and the public on the importance of carbon removal, using data-driven insights to support communication and policy advocacy.If you enjoyed this episode, please subscribe to this podcast on your favorite podcast app or subscribe via The Carbon Curve newsletter here. If you’d like to get in touch with Na’im, you can reach out via LinkedIn. This is a public episode. If you would like to discuss this with other subscribers or get access to bonus episodes, visit carboncurve.substack.com

Episode 57 is with Adam Fraser, CEO of Terraset.In this episode, Na’im speaks with Adam Fraser about Terraset, an innovative nonprofit dedicated to removing greenhouse gases from the atmosphere. They discuss Adam's background in sports journalism and his transition to climate action. They highlight the unique approaches Terraset uses to fund carbon removal, including a recently launched revolving fund which pre-purchases carbon removal and reinvests proceeds to create a sustainable funding model. They also discuss the importance of philanthropic capital to catalyze the nascent carbon removal industry and how Terraset collaborates with various stakeholders to support and scale early-stage carbon removal companies. The episode delves into the diverse motivations and profiles of Terraset’s donors, the gaps and challenges in funding permanent carbon removal and potential solutions, and the future plans for Terraset and how interested parties can get involved.In this episode, Na’im and Adam discuss:* Adam’s journey into carbon removal;* Terraset’s mission and approach;* Challenges and opportunities in funding carbon removal;* Innovative funding models for carbon removal;* Terraset's Revolving Fund.Relevant Links:* What carbon removal suppliers need most in 2025 - Terraset Survey Finding* Launching the Terraset Revolving Fund - Terraset Substack* New carbon removals fund aims to spur project development - TrellisAbout Adam:In 2023 he was named as the first CEO of Terraset, a nonprofit focused on removing greenhouse gases from the atmosphere. Prior to Terraset, Adam served as Chief Executive of the Laureus Sport for Good Foundation, a global nonprofit founded under the Patronage of Nelson Mandela after the role he saw sport play in rebuilding post-apartheid South Africa. He now sits on the organization’s 501(c)(3) Board, as well as the Board of YPO Manhattan. He has worked as a journalist and writer, communications lead, and nonprofit brand and business development specialist, and has built successful funding partnerships on every continent.Background on Terraset: Terraset is a nonprofit that uses philanthropic capital to catalyze the nascent carbon removal industry. They pool tax-deductible donations from individuals, foundations, family offices, and donor-advised funds, and make strategic purchases of permanent, high-quality carbon removal from innovative projects and companies. This episode was created and published by Na’im Merchant. Episode production and content support provided by Tank Chen.Na’im Merchant is the co-founder and Executive Director of Carbon Removal Canada, a policy initiative focused on scaling carbon removal in Canada. He is on the advisory board of the Carbon Removal Standards Initiative and Terraset, and a former policy fellow with Elemental Impact. He previously ran carbon removal consulting practice Carbon Curve, and publishes The Carbon Curve newsletter and podcast. Every two weeks, Na’im will release a short interview with individuals advancing the policies, technologies, and collective action needed to scale up carbon removal around the world.Tank Chen is the Head of Content and Community at CDR.fyi, a public benefit corporation dedicated to accelerating carbon removal through transparency. He is also the co-founder of CDRjobs, a career platform for the carbon removal industry. Based in Taiwan, Tank is a carbon removal advocate focused on educating policymakers, corporate leaders, and the public on the importance of carbon removal, using data-driven insights to support communication and policy advocacy.If you enjoyed this episode, please subscribe to this podcast on your favorite podcast app or subscribe via The Carbon Curve newsletter here. If you’d like to get in touch with Na’im, you can reach out via LinkedIn. This is a public episode. If you would like to discuss this with other subscribers or get access to bonus episodes, visit carboncurve.substack.com

Episode 56 is with Jonathan Rhone and Natalie Khtikian, co-founders of CO280.In this episode, Na’im speaks with Jonathan and Natalie about their groundbreaking work in large-scale carbon dioxide removal (CDR) projects, specifically in partnership with pulp and paper companies. They discuss their innovative approach to carbon removal by partnering with pulp and paper companies. They highlight the importance of leveraging existing industrial frameworks to scale effectively. The episode delves into their successful partnerships with major companies like JP Morgan and Microsoft, and the critical role of government policies in facilitating large-scale carbon removal projects.In this episode, Na’im, Jonathan, and Natalie discuss: * Their journey into carbon removal and founding CO280;* The challenges and opportunities of integrating carbon removal technology with the pulp and paper industry* CO280's business model and project financing strategies* Recent high-profile agreements with companies like Frontier, Microsoft, and Frontier;* Technical and logistical aspects of CDR project development;* The importance of regulatory and policy certainties for supporting the CDR market; and* The outlook and future plans for CO280.Relevant Links:* CO280 - Website* CO280 and Frontier’s offtake agreement - Article* Why Microsoft is buying carbon credits from a pulp and paper mill - Article by Trellis* CO280 and JPMorgan’s offtake agreement - NewsAbout JonJonathan Rhone is a serial cleantech entrepreneur with extensive experience commercializing hard-tech, developing large-scale projects, and partnering with industrials to solve tough energy and environmental problems. As co-founder and CEO of Axine Water, he led commercialization of a disruptive technology and hardware-as-a-service model for the pharmaceutical and other industrial markets.​Jonathan is also co-founder and director of Evok Innovations, where he helped launch one of Canada’s largest and most successful cleantech venture funds. As founder and CEO of Nexterra Systems, he created a global supplier of bioenergy heat and power systems for industrial and institutional customers. Prior to Nexterra, he held leadership positions with a NASDAQ-listed cleantech company, and the Delphi Group. He began his career in oil and gas with Amoco Canada (now BP).About NatalieNatalie Khtikian is a commercialization and sales leader with experience spanning software, advertising, and hard-tech. She is cofounder and chief commercial officer atPrior to joining CO280, Natalie was Climeworks' first employee in North America, before pivoting to climate tech, Natalie was part of two teams that were acquired by Google, Wildfire Interactive and Waze. There, she worked with Fortune 50 clients and opened new markets and verticals. Natalie also was VP of Sales for Yondr, a hardware team focused on removing cellphone distraction from shows, events, and spaces.About CO280CO280 is a developer of large-scale carbon dioxide removal (CDR) projects. In partnership with pulp and paper companies, CO280 develops, finances, owns, and operates carbon removal projects that deliver a new standard of permanent, verifiable, and affordable CDR credits to customers in the carbon market.  They have more than 10m tonnes per year of CDR under development in the US and Canada.  They have had recent public CDR customer announcements with JPMorgan, Microsoft, and Frontier.This episode was made possible thanks to the generous support of the Consecon Foundation.This episode was created and published by Na’im Merchant. Episode production and content support provided by Tank Chen.Na’im Merchant is the co-founder and Executive Director of Carbon Removal Canada, a policy initiative focused on scaling carbon removal in Canada. He is on the advisory board of the Carbon Removal Standards Initiative and Terraset, and a former policy fellow with Elemental Impact. He previously ran carbon removal consulting practice Carbon Curve, and publishes The Carbon Curve newsletter and podcast. Every two weeks, Na’im will release a short interview with individuals advancing the policies, technologies, and collective action needed to scale up carbon removal around the world.Tank Chen is the Head of Content and Community at CDR.fyi, a public benefit corporation dedicated to accelerating carbon removal through transparency. He is also the co-founder of CDRjobs, a career platform for the carbon removal industry. Based in Taiwan, Tank is a carbon removal advocate focused on educating policymakers, corporate leaders, and the public on the importance of carbon removal, using data-driven insights to support communication and policy advocacy.If you enjoyed this episode, please subscribe to this podcast on your favorite podcast app or subscribe via The Carbon Curve newsletter here. If you’d like to get in touch with Na’im, you can reach out via LinkedIn. This is a public episode. If you would like to discuss this with other subscribers or get access to bonus episodes, visit carboncurve.substack.com

Episode 55 is with Will Kain, Founder & CEO of AvnosIn this episode, Na’im speaks with Will Kain about the advancement and commercialization of hybrid direct air capture (HDAC) technology at Avnos. The conversation also covers Will’s journey into the climate tech space, the unique hybrid DAC approach and the resource-efficient and cost-effective benefits of HDAC, as well as the challenges of scaling DAC technologies and the role of supportive policy regimes.In this episode, Na’im and Will discuss: * Will’s journey in carbon removal* Avnos’ approach to Direct Air Capture Technology* Avnos’ latest project, Brighton, and future plans* The importance of partnership and policy support* Challenges and opportunities in scaling DACRelevant Links:Avnos - WebsiteAvnos HDAC Technology - Explainer - YoutubeAvnos’ Demonstration Unit in Bridgewater, NJ - News About Will Kain: Will is the Founder & CEO of Avnos, bringing nearly a decade of leadership experience across early-stage cleantech companies. He previously launched Rusheen Capital Management and served as VP of Corporate Development at NanoH2O, a global desalination tech company. Will began his career at UBS Investment Bank and holds a BA in Economics and Government from the University of Virginia.About Avnos: Avnos is commercializing a unique approach to direct air capture – Hybrid Direct Air Capture (HDAC™) – which removes CO2 from the air, while producing water and requiring no external heat. The result is a resource-efficient, geographically flexible, and cost-effective approach to DAC. Avnos’ approach has been awarded multi-million-dollar projects from the U.S. Department of Energy and has backing from the U.S. Office of Naval Research to pilot DAC-sourced CO2 for e-fuels production.This episode was made possible thanks to the generous support of the Consecon Foundation.This episode was created and published by Na’im Merchant. Episode production and content support provided by Tank Chen.Na’im Merchant is the co-founder and Executive Director of Carbon Removal Canada, a policy initiative focused on scaling carbon removal in Canada. He is on the advisory board of the Carbon Removal Standards Initiative and Terraset, and a former policy fellow with Elemental Impact. He previously ran carbon removal consulting practice Carbon Curve, and publishes The Carbon Curve newsletter and podcast. Every two weeks, Na’im will release a short interview with individuals advancing the policies, technologies, and collective action needed to scale up carbon removal around the world.Tank Chen is the Head of Content and Community at CDR.fyi, a public benefit corporation dedicated to accelerating carbon removal through transparency. He is also the co-founder of CDRjobs, a career platform for the carbon removal industry. Based in Taiwan, Tank is a carbon removal advocate focused on educating policymakers, corporate leaders, and the public on the importance of carbon removal, using data-driven insights to support communication and policy advocacy.If you enjoyed this episode, please subscribe to this podcast on your favorite podcast app or subscribe via The Carbon Curve newsletter here. If you’d like to get in touch with Na’im, you can reach out via LinkedIn. This is a public episode. If you would like to discuss this with other subscribers or get access to bonus episodes, visit carboncurve.substack.com

Episode 54 is with Shantanu Agrawal, Founder and CEO of Mati Carbon and Nikki Batchelor, Executive Director for the $100M Carbon Removal XPRIZE.In this episode, Na’im delves into the groundbreaking achievements in carbon removal led by Mati Carbon and the XPRIZE Carbon Dioxide Removal Competition. Shantanu Aggarwal, CEO of Mati Carbon, discusses winning the $50 million grand prize of the XPRIZE competition. Nikki Bachelor from XPRIZE highlights the competition’s impact in catalyzing the carbon removal market, with insights into scaling solutions and responsible deployment. The conversation covers the intersection of carbon removal, economic development, and global collaboration to combat climate change.In this episode, Na’im, Nikki, and Shantanu discuss: * The journey and development of the XPRIZE Carbon Removal Prize; * The catalytic impact of XPRIZE on the carbon removal industry; * The significant achievements and challenges faced by the finalist teams; * Mati Carbon’s strategy and successes, specifically their work with small holder farmers; * The importance of maintaining high standards for carbon removal verification and community engagement; * The ambitious goals and global development impact driven by Mati Carbon's enhanced rock weathering approach; and* Future directions and initiatives for XPRIZE.Relevant Links:* XPRIZE Carbon Removal - Website* XPRIZE Carbon Removal Winners - Article* Meet the Winners - Video* Mati Carbon - WebsiteAbout Shantanu:Shantanu Agrawal is a serial entrepreneur with over 22 years of experience in the energy and sustainability sectors. He holds a B.Tech in Chemical Engineering from the Indian Institute of Technology (IIT) Roorkee and an MBA from Harvard Business School. He is a Schmidt Innovation Fellow and a Henry Fellow, recognized for his work in advancing scalable climate solutions in the Global South. As the Founder & CEO of Mati Carbon, he directs strategy,fundraising and leads cross functional teams to deliver large-scale carbon-removal initiatives that strengthen climate resilience for smallholder farmers. Prior to founding Mati Carbon, Shantanu co-founded Sustaera, a Direct Air Capture company. He has also led investments in a number of energy and industrial tech startups in the past as a general partner in a venture capital fund.About Nikki:Nikki Batchelor is the Executive Director for the $100M XPRIZE Carbon Removal, a competition supported by the Musk Foundation to drive innovation, market adoption, and responsible deployment of carbon removal solutions. In this capacity she oversees program operations, develops partnerships, and leads strategic initiatives on topics such as environmental justice and investor engagement, including the Circular Carbon Network that provides market insights for the growing carbon tech and carbon removal sectors. Nikki also supports XPRIZE’s work across the Energy & Climate Domain and previously managed operations and impact programs for the $20M NRG COSIA Carbon XPRIZE from 2015-2021. She also serves on the Carbon Business Council Board of Directors and Puro.Earth Advisory Board.Background on Mati:Mati Carbon does durable carbon removal through Enhanced Rock Weathering (ERW) with smallholder farmers of the Global South. The company partners with smallholder farmers to apply finely ground basalt to croplands, accelerating the natural geochemical process of rock weathering that permanently removes atmospheric CO₂ while restoring soil fertility and increasing crop yields.Mati Carbon is the winner of the $50M XPRIZE Carbon Removal Grand Prize, and its high-quality carbon credits are purchased by marquee buyers including Stripe, Shopify, H&M, and Siemens. By the end of 2025, the company is on track to engage 30,000 Background on XPRIZE:XPRIZE is an established global leader in designing, launching, and executing large scale competitions to solve humanity’s greatest challenges. The XPRIZE unique model democratizes innovation by incentivizing crowd-sourced, scientifically viable solutions to create a more equitable and abundant future for all. This episode was made possible thanks to the generous support of the Consecon Foundation.This episode was created and published by Na’im Merchant. Episode production and content support provided by Tank Chen.Na’im Merchant is the co-founder and Executive Director of Carbon Removal Canada, a policy initiative focused on scaling carbon removal in Canada. He is on the advisory board of the Carbon Removal Standards Initiative and Terraset, and a former policy fellow with Elemental Impact. He previously ran carbon removal consulting practice Carbon Curve, and publishes The Carbon Curve newsletter and podcast. Every two weeks, Na’im will release a short interview with individuals advancing the policies, technologies, and collective action needed to scale up carbon removal around the world.Tank Chen is the Head of Content and Community at CDR.fyi, a public benefit corporation dedicated to accelerating carbon removal through transparency. He is also the co-founder of CDRjobs, a career platform for the carbon removal industry. Based in Taiwan, Tank is a carbon removal advocate focused on educating policymakers, corporate leaders, and the public on the importance of carbon removal, using data-driven insights to support communication and policy advocacy.If you enjoyed this episode, please subscribe to this podcast on your favorite podcast app or subscribe via The Carbon Curve newsletter here. If you’d like to get in touch with Na’im, you can reach out via LinkedIn. This is a public episode. If you would like to discuss this with other subscribers or get access to bonus episodes, visit carboncurve.substack.com

Episode 53 is a Special Episode with Ed Whittingham of Advance Climate Solutions and Grégoire Baillargeon, President of BMO Québec and Vice Chair of BMO Capital Markets.In this special live episode of The Carbon Curve, Na’im is joined by Ed Whittingham of Advance Climate Solutions and host of the Energy vs. Climate podcast and Grégoire Baillargeon, President of BMO Quebec, Vice Chair of BMO Capital Markets, and Board Member of Carbon Removal Canada. Recorded at the Climate Solutions Prize Festival, the “multi-host” panel discusses the potential of Canada to scale carbon removal technologies and seize a leadership role in this burgeoning field. Key topics include the integration of policy, markets, and innovation, the economic and job creation potential of carbon removal in Canada, and the role of the government and private sector in supporting this sector. The conversation also highlights existing challenges and the need for concerted action to realize Canada's carbon removal ambitions.This episode was cross-published on the Energy vs. Climate podcast.Na’im Merchant is the co-founder and Executive Director of Carbon Removal Canada, a policy initiative focused on scaling carbon removal in Canada. He was a policy fellow with Elemental Impact. He previously ran carbon removal consulting practice Carbon Curve, and publishes The Carbon Curve newsletter and podcast. This post represents his personal views and not those of Carbon Removal Canada. You can get in touch with him on LinkedIn. This is a public episode. If you would like to discuss this with other subscribers or get access to bonus episodes, visit carboncurve.substack.com

Episode 52 is a special joint episode with Plan Sea host Anna Madlener and Lennart Bach, Associate Professor and ocean alkalinity enhancement (OAE) scientist at the University of Tasmania.In this episode, Na’im joins Anna Madlener for a special co-hosted episode between Plan Sea and The Carbon Curve, recorded live at the Carbon to Sea 2025 Annual Convening. Anna and Na’im speak with Lennart Bach, to share insights and key takeaways from this year’s convening.Last month, Carbon to Sea hosted its third Annual Convening in Washington, D.C., bringing together scientists, entrepreneurs, and policymakers to share recent progress and discuss a path forward for OAE. Building on the conversations started during the convening, Na’im and Bach highlight the importance of aligning on MRV approaches, cross-sector partnerships, increased community and policymaker engagement, and new funding pathways as key avenues to explore. Na’im Merchant is the co-founder and Executive Director of Carbon Removal Canada, a policy initiative focused on scaling carbon removal in Canada. He was a policy fellow with Elemental Impact. He previously ran carbon removal consulting practice Carbon Curve, and publishes The Carbon Curve newsletter and podcast. This post represents his personal views and not those of Carbon Removal Canada. You can get in touch with him on LinkedIn. This is a public episode. If you would like to discuss this with other subscribers or get access to bonus episodes, visit carboncurve.substack.com

Episode 51 is with Erin Burns, Executive Director of Carbon180.This episode highlights the critical need for long-term strategies and adaptability in carbon removal policies amidst changing political landscapes. Key takeaways include the importance of making carbon removal efforts tangible and real for policymakers by emphasizing measurable impacts and local benefits, the necessity of building broad coalitions and engaging various stakeholders to sustain and expand carbon removal initiatives, and the focus on developing new, specialized carbon removal policies while defending existing programs to ensure continued progress in the sector.In this episode, Na’im and Erin discuss:* Erin's unique journey into the carbon removal sector;* The mission and strategic direction of Carbon180;* Key policy wins and challenges faced in the carbon removal field;* The importance of taking a long-term view in carbon removal efforts;* Strategies for adapting to changing political landscapes;* Practical advice for carbon removal professionals and companies on maintaining momentum and engagement;* The necessity of building broader coalitions for durable policy success. Relevant Links:* Carbon180 - Website* Six defining moments for carbon removal in 2024 - Carbon180 Blog* A Carbon180 cofounder reflects on his time in Biden’s DOE - Carbon180 Blog* The Carbon Removal Industry’s Trump Playbook - Heatmap News [🔒Paywall ]About Erin Burns: Erin shapes the organization's strategic direction while growing the organization's influence in both policy and the carbon removal field. Previously, she worked in the Senate for Joe Manchin handling energy environment, labor, and agricultural issues, including staffing for the Energy and Natural Resources Committee and the public land subcommittee.She also worked at third way, a DC-based think tank, managing carbon capture and removal innovation and clean energy. A native of West Virginia. She has worked on the Coal Community transition. Erin sits on the Board of the Good Energy Collective and serves as an advisor to the University of Michigan's global CO2 initiative, the Carbon Removal Standards Initiative, and Absolute Climate.About Carbon180: Carbon180 is reversing two centuries of legacy carbon emissions. They work with policymakers, entrepreneurs, and peer organizations across the US to design policies that will bring necessary carbon removal solutions to gigaton scale.This episode was made possible thanks to the generous support of the Consecon Foundation.This episode was created and published by Na’im Merchant. Episode production and content support provided by Tank Chen.Na’im Merchant is the co-founder and Executive Director of Carbon Removal Canada, a policy initiative focused on scaling carbon removal in Canada. He is on the advisory board of the Carbon Removal Standards Initiative and Terraset, and a former policy fellow with Elemental Impact. He previously ran carbon removal consulting practice Carbon Curve, and publishes The Carbon Curve newsletter and podcast. Every two weeks, Na’im will release a short interview with individuals advancing the policies, technologies, and collective action needed to scale up carbon removal around the world.Tank Chen is the Head of Content and Community at CDR.fyi, a public benefit corporation dedicated to accelerating carbon removal through transparency. He is also the co-founder of CDRjobs, a career platform for the carbon removal industry. Based in Taiwan, Tank is a carbon removal advocate focused on educating policymakers, corporate leaders, and the public on the importance of carbon removal, using data-driven insights to support communication and policy advocacy.If you enjoyed this episode, please subscribe to this podcast on your favorite podcast app or subscribe via The Carbon Curve newsletter here. If you’d like to get in touch with Na’im, you can reach out via LinkedIn. This is a public episode. If you would like to discuss this with other subscribers or get access to bonus episodes, visit carboncurve.substack.com

Episode 50 is a special AMA style episode with Na’im Merchant and Rahima DosaniIn this special “ask me anything” episode of the Carbon Curve podcast, the tables are turned and Na’im is interviewed by his wife, Rahima Dosani, to discuss the past year's accomplishments and challenges, as well as future plans for 2025 in the carbon removal space. With Na’im leading Carbon Removal Canada, he shares insights on policy achievements, the growth of the sector, and the balancing act of managing an organization and parenthood. The conversation covers significant policy milestones and Na’im shares frustrations about the negative discourse aimed at carbon removal technologies, future goals and personal priorities for 2025, and a leadership framework needed to address climate change as a complex systems problem. In this episode, Na’im and Rahima discuss:* Discussion about the challenges and experiences of running a carbon removal organization, including balancing work and family life.* Highlights of exciting experiences in 2024 and a review of policy wins and successes.* Anticipating the future: looking ahead to 2025 and addressing criticisms of carbon removal.* Sharing future plans for the Carbon Curve and sharing personal goals and reflections.Relevant links in the episode:* Carbon Removal Canada website* Write-up following Na’im’s Mammoth visit: We’ve come a long way. We have a long way to go.* Episode on adaptive leadership with Josh Albert (Konu)About Rahima Dosani: Rahima is the Director of Strategy, Learning, and Innovation at Global Health Visions, a women owned and operated global health consulting firm.She previously worked for the Center for Innovation and Impact at USAID and the Clinton Health Access Initiative in Myanmar and Malawi, after she did strategy consulting in New York City. Rahima holds a BA from the University of Pennsylvania, an MBA from the Harvard Business School, and a master's in public health from the Harvard School of Public Health.This episode was created and published by Na’im Merchant. Episode production and content support provided by Tank Chen.Na’im Merchant is the co-founder and Executive Director of Carbon Removal Canada, a policy initiative focused on scaling carbon removal in Canada. He is on the advisory board of the Carbon Removal Standards Initiative and Terraset, and a former policy fellow with Elemental Impact. He previously ran carbon removal consulting practice Carbon Curve, and publishes The Carbon Curve newsletter and podcast. Every two weeks, Na’im will release a short interview with individuals advancing the policies, technologies, and collective action needed to scale up carbon removal around the world.Tank Chen is the Head of Content and Community at CDR.fyi, a public benefit corporation dedicated to accelerating carbon removal through transparency. He is also the co-founder of CDRjobs, a career platform for the carbon removal industry. Based in Taiwan, Tank is a carbon removal advocate focused on educating policymakers, corporate leaders, and the public on the importance of carbon removal, using data-driven insights to support communication and policy advocacy.If you enjoyed this episode, please subscribe to this podcast on your favorite podcast app or subscribe via The Carbon Curve newsletter here. If you’d like to get in touch with Na’im, you can reach out via LinkedIn. This is a public episode. If you would like to discuss this with other subscribers or get access to bonus episodes, visit carboncurve.substack.com

Episode 49 is with Peter Minor (Absolute Climate) and Travis Caddy (Evident)Despite all of the recent progress to integrate carbon removal in carbon markets globally, a significant problem remains. Existing market mechanisms continue to commoditize carbon removal credits that we haven’t effectively standardized yet. Carbon credits are sold as interchangeable units despite differences in how project quality is evaluated. Absolute Climate thinks it has solved this problem with the Absolute Carbon Standard and its partnership with longstanding registry Evident. I speak to Peter Minor and Travis Caddy about this standard and exciting new partnership.In this episode, Na’im, Peter and Travis discuss:* the importance of standardized carbon removal measures;* Creating conflict-free certification mechanisms;* the creation of the Absolute Carbon Standard by Absolute Climate* the role of Evident in offering independent certification* the challenges of commoditizing carbon credits* the significance of separation of responsibilitiesRelevant Links:* Absolute Climate - Website* Evident - Website* C-Capsule - Website* A Standardized Test for Carbon Removal - Heatmap News* Absolute Carbon Standard V1.0About Peter:Peter Minor is a co-founder and CEO of Absolute Climate, and a veteran of the carbon removal industry. He previously served as the Director of Science & Innovation at Carbon180, the premier US federal policy organization for carbon removal. While there, he contributed to the development of key programs like the DOE Regional DAC Hubs, and pioneered core principles required for high-accountability MRV. Peter is also a technical reviewer for the carbon removal XPRIZE and steered development of Activate’s Carbon Management vertical. Always the optimist, Peter is a firm believer in humanity’s capacity to solve big problems.About Absolute Climate:Absolute Climate develops industry-leading carbon removal standards and methodologies without the conflicts of interest. They partner with registries, rather than operating their own, in order to better align incentives with climate impact. Their first product is the Absolute Carbon Standard, the first “standardized test” for carbon removal. It applies the same universal criteria to all projects, providing apples-to-apples quality comparisons even for dramatically different approaches.About Travis:Travis Caddy is the Business Development Director of Evident, where he is leading growth and partnerships across multiple registries certifying the Clean Economy. Beyond renewable energy, he also supports market design and implementation for other emerging asset classes, including carbon removal, sustainable aviation fuel and biomethane. Travis holds a Bachelor of Arts from University College London and is a Fellow of the Royal Geographical Society in London. About Evident:Evident is the world leader in certification of the Clean Economy and provider of the world's most widely used registry of environmental assets, serving customers in over 140 countries. Evident collaborates with governments and standard-setters to implement robust, credible certification standards that encourage transition to a certified, global Clean Economy. Evident manages the I-REC certificate service for electricity, MiQ certificate service for low-methane natural gas, among others.This episode was made possible thanks to the generous support of the Consecon Foundation.This episode was created and published by Na’im Merchant. Episode production and content support provided by Tank Chen.Na’im Merchant is the co-founder and Executive Director of Carbon Removal Canada, a policy initiative focused on scaling carbon removal in Canada. He is on the advisory board of the Carbon Removal Standards Initiative and Terraset, and a former policy fellow with Elemental Impact. He previously ran carbon removal consulting practice Carbon Curve, and publishes The Carbon Curve newsletter and podcast. Every two weeks, Na’im will release a short interview with individuals advancing the policies, technologies, and collective action needed to scale up carbon removal around the world.Tank Chen is the Head of Content and Community at CDR.fyi, a public benefit corporation dedicated to accelerating carbon removal through transparency. He is also the co-founder of CDRjobs, a career platform for the carbon removal industry. Based in Taiwan, Tank is a carbon removal advocate focused on educating policymakers, corporate leaders, and the public on the importance of carbon removal, using data-driven insights to support communication and policy advocacy.If you enjoyed this episode, please subscribe to this podcast on your favorite podcast app or subscribe via The Carbon Curve newsletter here. If you’d like to get in touch with Na’im, you can reach out via LinkedIn. This is a public episode. If you would like to discuss this with other subscribers or get access to bonus episodes, visit carboncurve.substack.com

Episode 48 is with Senator Colin Deacon, Senate of CanadaIndependent Senator Colin Deacon was appointed to represent Nova Scotia in the Senate of Canada in June 2018. Senator Deacon shares his vision on how government policy can empower entrepreneurs and encourage investment in carbon removal technologies, and that regulator agility is critical to adapting to the fast evolving needs of carbon removal and climate solutions more generally. We dive deep on what regulatory agility could look like, including regulatory sandboxes, touch on opportunities for international cooperation on carbon removal given that Canada will host the G7 in 2025, and how innovation can provide hope and optimism in addressing climate change.In this episode, Na’im and Senator Colin Deacon discuss:* Senator Deacon’s journey to the Canadian Senate;* Senator Deacon’s understanding of carbon removal as part of the tool kit in addressing climate change; * The role of public policies in creating frameworks to enable entrepreneurs to solve problems;* The idea of regulatory sandboxes for carbon removal;* Canada as a global leader in carbon removal;* Building political capital in scaling carbon removal;* Ensuring political consistency through shifts in a democracy.Relevant Links:* Senator Colin Deacon’s Office* Senator Colin Deacon on LinkedIn* “Harnessing Canada’s Entrepreneurial Spirit to Remove Carbon Dioxide from the Atmosphere” - The Hill Times (Op-ed)* Senator Deacon makes the case for why Canada holds the potential of becoming home to the most effective and cost-efficient carbon dioxide removal (CDR) technologies in the world - CHAMBER SPEECH [Video]* Examine and report on ocean carbon sequestration and its use in Canada - Testimony from Canadian CDR companies at the Standing Senate Committee on Fisheries and Oceans [Video] * Na’im’s testimony the Standing Senate Committee on Fisheries and Oceans [Video]About Senator Deacon:Senator Colin Deacon was appointed to represent Nova Scotia in the Senate of Canada in June 2018. A lifelong entrepreneur, he believes in the power of innovation to address the most pressing issues facing Canada and the world. Recently, he is most focused on championing policies to incentivize and empower the private sector to aggressively address climate change, enabling greater regulatory agility particularly in response to emerging technologies, and harnessing the digital economy.This episode was made possible thanks to the generous support of the Consecon Foundation.This episode was created and published by Na’im Merchant. Episode production and content support provided by Tank Chen.Na’im Merchant is the co-founder and Executive Director of Carbon Removal Canada, a policy initiative focused on scaling carbon removal in Canada. He is on the advisory board of the Carbon Removal Standards Initiative and Terraset, and a former policy fellow with Elemental Impact. He previously ran carbon removal consulting practice Carbon Curve, and publishes The Carbon Curve newsletter and podcast. Every two weeks, Na’im will release a short interview with individuals advancing the policies, technologies, and collective action needed to scale up carbon removal around the world.Tank Chen is the Head of Content and Community at CDR.fyi, a public benefit corporation dedicated to accelerating carbon removal through transparency. He is also the co-founder of CDRjobs, a career platform for the carbon removal industry. Based in Taiwan, Tank is a carbon removal advocate focused on educating policymakers, corporate leaders, and the public on the importance of carbon removal, using data-driven insights to support communication and policy advocacy.If you enjoyed this episode, please subscribe to this podcast on your favorite podcast app or subscribe via The Carbon Curve newsletter here. If you’d like to get in touch with Na’im, you can reach out via LinkedIn. This is a public episode. If you would like to discuss this with other subscribers or get access to bonus episodes, visit carboncurve.substack.com

Episode 47 is with Giana Amador, Executive Director at Carbon Removal AllianceMonitoring, reporting, and verification (MRV) is critical to ensuring carbon removal quality, but what is the role of public policy to enable MRV to deliver on this promise? Giana Amador, Executive Director at Carbon Removal Alliance, describes the catalytic role government can play in supporting MRV standards, fostering transparency, and promoting community benefits for long-term carbon removal industry growth. We also discuss the significance of the newly introduced 45BB production tax credit aimed at fostering technological diversity in carbon removal solutions.In this episode, Na’im and Giana discuss:* Giana’s journey in carbon removal;* the mission of Carbon Removal Alliance to scale permanent carbon removal;* The evolution of the carbon removal sector;* The significance of bipartisan support for CDR;* Challenges and opportunities in monitoring, reporting, and verification (MRV) standards;* The role of government in building a high-quality permanent carbon removal industry;* The importance of transparent data sharing to increase trust and understanding of carbon removal impacts; and* The promising potential of the Carbon Dioxide Removal Investment Act.Relevant Links:* Carbon Removal Alliance - Website* Establishing quality in carbon removal - MRV Policy Roadmap* The Carbon Dioxide Removal Investment Act - The Bill - Senator Bennet (D-Colo.) and Senator Murkowski (R-Alaska) * Carbon Dioxide Removal Investment Act - World Resources InstituteAbout Giana:Giana Amador is the Executive Director of the Carbon Removal Alliance. The Carbon Removal Alliance bridges the gap between carbon removal innovators and US policymakers to help scale a diverse set of permanent carbon removal technologies. In 2015, Giana co-founded the first dedicated carbon removal organization, Carbon180. At Carbon180, Giana wore many hats — from guiding the team’s strategy and communications to ultimately leading its policy program. During her time as policy director, Giana advocated for landmark carbon removal policies, including the $3.5 billion for direct air capture hubs in the Bipartisan Infrastructure Law and the first-ever dedicated carbon removal research program in the Energy Act of 2020. Giana has provided testimony before the House Natural Resources Committee and advised presidential campaigns on carbon removal.About Carbon Removal Alliance:The Carbon Removal Alliance is a nonprofit coalition working to build a gigaton-scale industry that is categorically good for the climate, economy, and people. CRA narrows the gap between innovators and policymakers working to remove carbon from our atmosphere by translating the realities of building carbon removal projects into government programs that help the field scale. Alliance members are responsible for virtually all of the permanent carbon removal to date and represent an emerging class of companies who can help the US meet its climate goals. This episode was made possible thanks to the generous support of the Consecon Foundation.This episode was created and published by Na’im Merchant. Episode production and content support provided by Tank Chen.Na’im Merchant is the co-founder and Executive Director of Carbon Removal Canada, a policy initiative focused on scaling carbon removal in Canada. He is on the advisory board of the Carbon Removal Standards Initiative and Terraset, and a former policy fellow with Elemental Impact. He previously ran carbon removal consulting practice Carbon Curve, and publishes The Carbon Curve newsletter and podcast. Every two weeks, Na’im will release a short interview with individuals advancing the policies, technologies, and collective action needed to scale up carbon removal around the world.Tank Chen is the Head of Content and Community at CDR.fyi, a public benefit corporation dedicated to accelerating carbon removal through transparency. He is also the co-founder of CDRjobs, a career platform for the carbon removal industry. Based in Taiwan, Tank is a carbon removal advocate focused on educating policymakers, corporate leaders, and the public on the importance of carbon removal, using data-driven insights to support communication and policy advocacy.If you enjoyed this episode, please subscribe to this podcast on your favorite podcast app or subscribe via The Carbon Curve newsletter here. If you’d like to get in touch with Na’im, you can reach out via LinkedIn. This is a public episode. If you would like to discuss this with other subscribers or get access to bonus episodes, visit carboncurve.substack.com

Episode 46 is with Josh Albert, Associate Partner with KONUYou’ll often hear people say climate is a systems problem, but we in the carbon removal field don’t have a useful framework for driving systems change. In this episode, we explore the complexities of climate change, going beyond single solutions and acknowledging the diverse stakeholders and shifting systems involved. Our guest introduces the Adaptive Leadership Framework, a unique approach to driving systems change. We'll discuss its potential in combatting climate change and scaling carbon removal.In this episode, Na’im and Josh discuss:* Josh’s journey from working on the global health sector to his current role;* Josh’s experience at KONU and the organization’s focus around leadership development;* Key concepts around Social Systems and Adaptive Leadership* Challenges in tackling complex problems;* Case Study: Gina Raimondo's Leadership in Pension Reform;* Systems Change in Carbon Removal: Technical vs. Adaptive Problem Solving;* Ways to address resistance to change and identifying stakeholder losses; and* Engaging skeptical stakeholders and building trust among stakeholdersRelevant Links:* KONU - Website* On the Balcony - Podcast by KONU* The Leadership Life - Blog by KONU* Adaptive Leadership in 12 Minutes (YouTube)* Adaptive Leadership - Harvard Business Publishing Education (paywall)* The Theory Behind the Practice: A Brief Introduction to the Adaptive Leadership Framework - Harvard Busines Review Press (paywall)* 5 Key Essentials Of Adaptive Leadership - Brent Gleeson (paywall)* Leading Pension Reform in Rhode Island - HKS Case Program (paywall)About Josh Albert:Josh is an Associate Partner with KONU, a leadership development and change advising firm. He brings expertise in team leadership and systems change, and he is a trained adaptive leadership coach and facilitator. Josh holds a Master’s in Public Policy with a focus on leadership and institutional development from the Harvard Kennedy School.Previously, Josh spent eight years with Last Mile Health, a health justice nonprofit that partners with governments to build health systems serving remote communities. During his time there, he served as Chief Operating Officer, overseeing in-country operations in Liberia for four years, including during the Ebola outbreak. Josh played a key role in establishing the organization as a national leader within Liberia’s health system. Together, he and Na’im collaborated to orchestrate a partnership with the Liberian government that scaled Last Mile Health’s model for delivering remote health systems to every community in the country.About Konu:KONU partners with mission-driven organizations to craft adult learning experiences that help people unlock progress on their most difficult leadership challenges and change goals. Clients include the UN, the World Bank, US National Park Service, the Massachusetts Bay Transit Authority, Marriott International.This episode was made possible thanks to the generous support of the Consecon Foundation.This episode was created and published by Na’im Merchant. Episode production and content support provided by Tank Chen.Na’im Merchant is the co-founder and Executive Director of Carbon Removal Canada, a policy initiative focused on scaling carbon removal in Canada. He is on the advisory board of the Carbon Removal Standards Initiative and Terraset, and a former policy fellow with Elemental Impact. He previously ran carbon removal consulting practice Carbon Curve, and publishes The Carbon Curve newsletter and podcast. Every two weeks, Na’im will release a short interview with individuals advancing the policies, technologies, and collective action needed to scale up carbon removal around the world.Tank Chen is the Head of Content and Community at CDR.fyi, a public benefit corporation dedicated to accelerating carbon removal through transparency. He is also the co-founder of CDRjobs, a career platform for the carbon removal industry. Based in Taiwan, Tank is a carbon removal advocate focused on educating policymakers, corporate leaders, and the public on the importance of carbon removal, using data-driven insights to support communication and policy advocacy.If you enjoyed this episode, please subscribe to this podcast on your favorite podcast app or subscribe via The Carbon Curve newsletter here. If you’d like to get in touch with Na’im, you can reach out via LinkedIn. This is a public episode. If you would like to discuss this with other subscribers or get access to bonus episodes, visit carboncurve.substack.com

Episode 45 is with Eli Mitchell-Larson, Co-founder and Chief Scientist at Carbon Gap, and Robert Höglund, Co-founder of CDR.fyi and Fund Manager at Milkywire.Today Na’im speaks with Eli and Robert about their latest publication titled “All excess emissions must be removed”, which argues for the central role of carbon removal (CDR) to address the global carbon debt, especially among historically high emitters, not only the “residual emissions” remaining at the year of net zero - and how this reframing expands the use case for carbon removal.In this episode, Na’im, Eli, and Robert discuss:* Previous research collaborations - the ability to pay and mitigation deterrence;* The significance of carbon budgets;* The definition(s) of residual emissions and CDR optimal emissions;* The need for large-scale carbon removal and the role of historic emitters;* Justice issues and the equitable management of carbon budgets; and* The importance of innovative carbon removal use cases.Relevant Links:* Carbon Gap’s Website* Who Can Pay for Carbon Removal? - Carbon Gap* How to avoid carbon removal delaying emissions reductions - Carbon Gap* All excess emissions must be removed - Carbon Gap* Marginal Carbon Substack* Warming caused by cumulative carbon emissions towards the trillionth tonne - MR Allen et alAbout Eli:Eli Mitchell-Larson is a climate advocate, policy entrepreneur, and researcher based at the University of Oxford. He is co-founder and Chief Scientist at Carbon Gap, Europe’s leading NGO focused on building expertise and policy proposals to responsibly scale carbon dioxide removal. As a research Associate @ Oxford Net Zero, his work has helped form the basis of scientific frameworks to define durable net zero, climate-compatible offsetting (Oxford Offsetting Principles), supply-side climate policies (Carbon Takeback Obligation).About Robert:Robert Höglund manages the charitable Milkywire Climate Transformation Fund, Co-founded the market overview CDR.fyi, writes for Carbon Gap, as well as his own publication Marginal Carbon.This episode was made possible thanks to the generous support of the Consecon Foundation.This episode was created and published by Na’im Merchant. Episode production and content support provided by Tank Chen.Na’im Merchant is the co-founder and Executive Director of Carbon Removal Canada, a policy initiative focused on scaling carbon removal in Canada. He is on the advisory board of the Carbon Removal Standards Initiative and Terraset, and a former policy fellow with Elemental Impact. He previously ran carbon removal consulting practice Carbon Curve, and publishes The Carbon Curve newsletter and podcast. Every two weeks, Na’im will release a short interview with individuals advancing the policies, technologies, and collective action needed to scale up carbon removal around the world.Tank Chen is the Head of Content and Community at CDR.fyi, a public benefit corporation dedicated to accelerating carbon removal through transparency. He is also the co-founder of CDRjobs, a career platform for the carbon removal industry. Based in Taiwan, Tank is a carbon removal advocate focused on educating policymakers, corporate leaders, and the public on the importance of carbon removal, using data-driven insights to support communication and policy advocacy. If you enjoyed this episode, please subscribe to this podcast on your favorite podcast app or subscribe via The Carbon Curve newsletter here. If you’d like to get in touch with Na’im, you can reach out via LinkedIn. This is a public episode. If you would like to discuss this with other subscribers or get access to bonus episodes, visit carboncurve.substack.com

Episode 44 is with Jim Mann, Founder and CEO of UNDOA few weeks ago, Microsoft inked a new 15,000 ton carbon removal deal with UNDO and similar deals with other enhanced rock weathering (ERW) companies. Na’im speaks with Jim Mann, Founder and CEO of UNDO, about the company’s efforts in scaling carbon removal through ERW both in the U.K. and in Canada.In this episode, Na’im and Jim discuss:* The origin of UNDO and the reasons for exploring ERW as the key CDR method; * The operational processes at UNDO;* UNDO’s experience going through the XPRIZE Carbon Removal competition;* The company’s approach to measurement, reporting, and verification (MRV);* Partnerships with academia, local community, and businesses in the supply-chain;* UNDO’s expansion into Canada and future goals; and* Impactful policy supportRelevant Links:* UNDO Website* UNDO LinkedIn* UK Government memo on ERW* Canadian Wollastonite website * UNDO X Newcastle Peer-reviewed paper in Plos One* Xprize Carbon Removal - Top 20 Finalists AnnouncementAbout JimWith a background in ecology, combined with extensive experience in scaling businesses, Jim was drawn to the fight against climate change and the ecological disaster it’s bringing with it. In 2019, Jim co-founded The Future Forest Company - a reforestation effort with a mission to remove carbon dioxide from the atmosphere and restore biodiversity across the UK.  Realising that tree planting could only go so far in helping solve the climate crisis, UNDO was born with the aim of delivering large-scale carbon removal projects with a permanence of 100,000+ years. When Jim is not busy creating a liveable planet for future generations, he runs competitively at ultra-distance, his favourite events being 100-mile or more mountain races. He lives in Scotland with his partner Liz and their two young children. About UNDOWith pioneering enhanced rock weathering technology, UNDO generates durable, high-quality carbon removal to support businesses on their pathway to net zero. This nature-based process also improves soil fertility, food security and the health of our oceans. Since 2022, UNDO has worked at the cutting edge of science alongside experts in the climate, carbon and agricultural sectors to develop an ERW technology which accelerates natural weathering processes to remove carbon from the atmosphere while bringing soil and crop benefits to agricultural communities. The UNDO operational, scientific and technical model leverages existing infrastructure, with a carbon efficiency of greater than 90 percent, allowing UNDO to quickly scale operations whilst offering carbon removal at competitive prices. UNDO aims to be the first company to remove one million tonnes of CO₂, a first step towards billion-tonne scale global operations. They operate primarily in the United Kingdom and now, Canada.This episode was made possible thanks to the generous support of the Consecon Foundation.This episode was created and published by Na’im Merchant. Episode production and content support provided by Tank Chen.Na’im Merchant is the co-founder and Executive Director of Carbon Removal Canada, a policy initiative focused on scaling carbon removal in Canada. He is also a policy fellow with Elemental Excelerator. He previously ran carbon removal consulting practice Carbon Curve, and publishes The Carbon Curve newsletter and podcast. Every two weeks, Na’im will release a short interview with individuals advancing the policies, technologies, and collective action needed to scale up carbon removal around the world.Tank Chen is a carbon removal advocate based in Taiwan whose focus is on communicating the importance of carbon removal to policy makers, corporate leaders, and the broader public through education, communications, and policy advocacy.If you enjoyed this episode, please subscribe to this podcast on your favorite podcast app or subscribe via The Carbon Curve newsletter here. If you’d like to get in touch with Na’im, you can reach out via LinkedIn. This is a public episode. If you would like to discuss this with other subscribers or get access to bonus episodes, visit carboncurve.substack.com

Episode 43 is with Luke Connell and Shannon SterlingAs we wrap up Climate Week NYC today, I wanted to share a special episode with the CarbonRun leadership team on their exciting $25M offtake agreement with Frontier Climate - probably the biggest carbon removal news of Climate Week. It even hit the front page of the New York Times. We talk about what they’ve been up to leading to this announcement, and what this major milestone means for their company and the communities they work with.In this episode, Na’im, Luke, and Shannon discuss: * The origins and mission of Carbon Run; * Luke's journey into carbon removal and entrepreneurship; * Shannon's extensive background in environmental science and working in communities* The science and benefits of river alkalinity enhancement;* Challenges and opportunities in scaling this technology;* The significance of their recent offtake agreement with Frontier;* The economic and ecological co-benefits of their approach;* Effective community engagement and maintaining public trust; and * Policy and regulatory needs for advancing carbon removal.Relevant Links:* CarbonRun Website* New York Times article on CarbonRun* Frontier Climate CarbonRun offtake details* What is CarbonRun - YouTube* Nova Scotia's rivers still suffer from acid rain. Restoring them could also help the climate - CBC News* Where Ideas Meet Impact: Hydrologist's research positions her to take a global lead in atmospheric carbon dioxide removal - Dalhousie University* Frontier Climate websiteAbout CarbonRunFounded and developed in Nova Scotia by an environmental scientist and freshwater ecologist, CarbonRun’s team of experts are dedicated to restoring rivers damaged by pollution to protect aquatic life. Its founders are global experts on river ecosystem health with decades of applied experience restoring rivers.About Luke ConnellOver his career, Luke Connell has strived to bridge the gap between social impact and entrepreneurialism, finding his path to CDR in 2020. Prior to co-founding CarbonRun, he led an innovation based, national charity and co-owned a popular, 3 location Toronto restaurant. He has a proven track record as a small-business founder and team builder. Luke sits on various charitable boards and actively invests in promising sustainability companies. He lives in Toronto with his wife, 2 children and dog Rudy.About Shannon SterlingShannon Sterling, PhD (Duke) is an Associate Professor in the Department of Earth and  Environmental Sciences at Dalhousie University, and an internationally-recognized expert in  catchment hydrology and biogeochemistry, with specific expertise in freshwater acidification and  climate change. Her research group has studied the hydrology and watersheds of Nova Scotia for the  past 15 years and led the discovery that aluminum levels were still at toxic concentrations in Nova  Scotia due to a legacy of acid rain. Dr. Sterling earned her Bachelor of Science in Geography at McGill University, Master of Science in Fluvial Geomorphology at the University of British Columbia, her Ph.D. in Earth Sciences at Duke University and was a Chateaubriand and a Marie Curie Intra European Fellow at the Universite de Pierre et Marie Curie (Sorbonne Université) in Paris.This episode was made possible thanks to the generous support of the Consecon Foundation.This episode was created and published by Na’im Merchant. Episode production and content support provided by Tank Chen.Na’im Merchant is the co-founder and Executive Director of Carbon Removal Canada, a policy initiative focused on scaling carbon removal in Canada. He is also a policy fellow with Elemental Excelerator. He previously ran carbon removal consulting practice Carbon Curve, and publishes The Carbon Curve newsletter and podcast. Every two weeks, Na’im will release a short interview with individuals advancing the policies, technologies, and collective action needed to scale up carbon removal around the world.Tank Chen is a carbon removal advocate based in Taiwan whose focus is on communicating the importance of carbon removal to policy makers, corporate leaders, and the broader public through education, communications, and policy advocacy.If you enjoyed this episode, please subscribe to this podcast on your favorite podcast app or subscribe via The Carbon Curve newsletter here. If you’d like to get in touch with Na’im, you can reach out via LinkedIn. This is a public episode. If you would like to discuss this with other subscribers or get access to bonus episodes, visit carboncurve.substack.com

Episode 42 is with Sebastian Manhart, Senior Policy Advisor at CarbonfutureSebastian Manhart discusses recent carbon dioxide removal (CDR) policies in Europe and the U.S. He points out key policy achievements, compares the EU's and U.S.'s different CDR approaches, and emphasizes the importance as well as the challenges of integrating CDR into compliance markets. He also mentions his own projects aimed at advancing the CDR industry.In this episode, Na’im and Sebastian discuss:* recent developments in carbon removal policies across Europe and the U.S.;* significant policy wins over the past year;* key legislative approaches to the EU’s carbon removal policies* Progress from individual European countries in CDR;* the approaches of the EU and the U.S.;* the potential and readiness of integrating CDR into compliance markets;* the importance of government roles and the need for developing domestic CDR industries;* the founding of the German CDR Association, DVNE, the U.S. Biochar Coalition, and CDRjobs.Relevant Links:* How the EU is shaping policies to pursue global leadership in carbon removal (2023)* Carbonfuture website * CDRjobs website * US Biochar Coalition website* Enhanced Weathering Alliance website* Deutscher Verband für Negative Emissionen (DVNE) website* Carbon Gap funding EU vs US analysis* Sebastian Manhart (LinkedIn, Website, Newsletter)* Compliance Market Poll* Denmark’s Livestock TaxAbout Sebastian:Sebastian Manhart is a CDR policy expert. He is the Senior Policy Advisor of Carbonfuture, the world’s leading CDR platform. Sebastian is also the Chair of the Board of the DVNE, the German CDR Association, as well as a founding Director of the US Biochar Coalition. Sebastian also recently founded CDRjobs, the sector’s leading job platform. Previously, Sebastian spent a decade as a tech entrepreneur, advised Angela Merkel´s Chancellery, and worked with governments globally through the World Bank. Sebastian is an economist with a BA from UCL and an MPhil from Cambridge University.About Carbonfuture: Carbonfuture builds the trust infrastructure needed to scale CDR. It operates across pathways, focused on developing both MRV and marketplaces services.The DVNE is the German CDR association, supporting the German government in achieving its ambitious 2045 net-zero target.The US Biochar Coalition aims to establish high-quality, permanent biochar carbon removal as a key pillar in American industrial and climate strategy.CDRjobs is the one stop shop for anyone transitioning into, or within CDR with all jobs in CDR in a single place.This episode was made possible thanks to the generous support of the Consecon Foundation.This episode was created and published by Na’im Merchant. Episode production and content support provided by Tank Chen.Na’im Merchant is the co-founder and Executive Director of Carbon Removal Canada, a policy initiative focused on scaling carbon removal in Canada. He is also a policy fellow with Elemental Excelerator. He previously ran carbon removal consulting practice Carbon Curve, and publishes The Carbon Curve newsletter and podcast. Every two weeks, Na’im will release a short interview with individuals advancing the policies, technologies, and collective action needed to scale up carbon removal around the world.Tank Chen is a carbon removal advocate based in Taiwan whose focus is on communicating the importance of carbon removal to policy makers, corporate leaders, and the broader public through education, communications, and policy advocacy.If you enjoyed this episode, please subscribe to this podcast on your favorite podcast app or subscribe via The Carbon Curve newsletter here. If you’d like to get in touch with Na’im, you can reach out via LinkedIn. This is a public episode. If you would like to discuss this with other subscribers or get access to bonus episodes, visit carboncurve.substack.com

Episode 41 is with Noah Deich, Senior Advisor for the U.S. Department of Energy’s Office of Fossil Energy and Carbon ManagementToday Na’im speaks with Noah Deich about how the US Department of Energy (DOE) is contributing to the carbon removal landscape through innovative programs and policies aimed at decarbonizing the energy sector and advancing carbon removal technologies. In this episode, Na’im and Noah discuss:* Noah's journey into the carbon removal space; * The role of DOE’s Office of Fossil Energy and Carbon Management;* Key innovation programs and initiatives supporting carbon removal; * The Carbon Negative Shot initiative and its goals;* The importance of Measurement, Reporting, and Verification (MRV) in carbon removal projects;* The DOE’s pilot program for purchasing carbon removal credits;* Community benefits and engagement in carbon removal projects;* Approaches in driving market demand for carbon removal.Relevant Links:* DOE Office of Fossil Energy and Carbon Management* Carbon Negative Shot* Carbon Dioxide Removal Purchase Pilot Prize* Direct Air Capture Pre-Commercial Technology Prize* Commercial Direct Air Capture Pilot Prize* The Roads to Removal (R2R) Report* Na’im’s reflections on the unveiling of Mammoth in IcelandAbout Noah:Noah Deich is a Senior Advisor for the U.S. Department of Energy’s Office of Fossil Energy and Carbon Management. Noah came to FECM from Carbon180, which he co-founded to catalyze the development of a portfolio of carbon removal solutions. Prior to that, Noah was an economic and management consultant with Accenture and ICF international, where he gained experience in many fields including environmental market and carbon offset modeling and renewable and fossil energy power plants valuations. Noah received his MBA from the Haas School of Business at UC Berkeley and his BA from the University of VirginiaAbout DOE FECM:The DOE’s Office of Fossil Energy and Carbon Management (FECM) minimizes environmental and climate impacts of fossil fuels and industrial processes while working to achieve net-zero emissions across the U.S. economy. Priority areas of technology work include carbon capture, carbon conversion, carbon dioxide removal, carbon dioxide transport and storage, hydrogen production with carbon management, methane emissions reduction, and critical minerals production. To learn more, visit the FECM website, sign up for FECM news announcements, and visit the National Energy Technology Laboratory website.This episode was made possible thanks to the generous support of the Consecon Foundation.This episode was created and published by Na’im Merchant. Episode production and content support provided by Tank Chen.Na’im Merchant is the co-founder and Executive Director of Carbon Removal Canada, a policy initiative focused on scaling carbon removal in Canada. He is also a policy fellow with Elemental Excelerator. He previously ran carbon removal consulting practice Carbon Curve, and publishes The Carbon Curve newsletter and podcast. Every two weeks, Na’im will release a short interview with individuals advancing the policies, technologies, and collective action needed to scale up carbon removal around the world.Tank Chen is a carbon removal advocate based in Taiwan whose focus is on communicating the importance of carbon removal to policy makers, corporate leaders, and the broader public through education, communications, and policy advocacy.If you enjoyed this episode, please subscribe to this podcast on your favorite podcast app or subscribe via The Carbon Curve newsletter here. If you’d like to get in touch with Na’im, you can reach out via LinkedIn. This is a public episode. If you would like to discuss this with other subscribers or get access to bonus episodes, visit carboncurve.substack.com