Since the release of the first Criteria for High-Quality Carbon Dioxide Removal in 2021, Carbon Direct and Microsoft have been at the forefront of establishing science-based guidance for high-quality carbon removal.

The 2024 edition reflects the continued evolution of the science and practice of carbon dioxide removal. The revised Criteria applies the latest scientific research and experience from the field to provide clear guidance to project developers and buyers on how to evaluate harms and benefits across social and environmental parameters, improve project management, and refine measurement and monitoring methods.