# M-ICR017

## Integrated Direct Air Capture and Microalgae Carbon Removal Methodology

### Methodology developer

[Aarksee Holding Co WLL](https://www.carbonregistry.com/directory/226de0dd-f8fc-4fe3-8039-b21341087b24) and [ECOVEDA Climate LLP](https://www.carbonregistry.com/directory/ecoveda-climate) 

### Sectoral scope

16. Carbon Capture and Storage

### Status

Under development

### Current Stage:

Public consultation

### ID:

[M-ICR017](https://www.carbonregistry.com/methodologies/m-icr-017)

### Summary:

This methodology describes how greenhouse gas removals are achieved by combining Direct Air Capture (DAC) technology with microalgae cultivation. In this system, CO₂ is first captured directly from the atmosphere using DAC units. The captured CO₂ is then transferred to microalgae, which absorb it as they grow. The resulting biomass is processed into durable products such as concrete, biochar, or soil amendments that can store carbon for long periods, typically at least 100 years.

The methodology quantifies the total amount of CO₂ removed from the atmosphere and then deducts all emissions generated throughout the process, including energy use, material inputs, transport, and any carbon released over time. This ensures that only the net climate benefit is credited.

In the absence of the project, no such carbon removal would occur. The system is currently not widely implemented due to high costs, technical complexity, and lack of regulatory requirements. As a result, the methodology demonstrates that these activities are additional and would not take place without the incentive provided by carbon credits.

The approach also accounts for indirect emissions, such as methane and nitrous oxide from biological processes, as well as any potential carbon losses. To address long-term storage risks, a portion of the issued credits is set aside in a buffer to compensate for any future reversals.

Ongoing monitoring and verification are required to track CO₂ capture, biomass production, and carbon storage in final products. This ensures that the reported removals are accurate, conservative, and maintained over time.

***

## Documentation

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{% tab title="Methodology Summary" %}
[M-ICR017](https://www.carbonregistry.com/methodologies/m-icr-017)
{% endtab %}

{% tab title="Methodology Description" %}

#### Methodology description

{% file src="/files/KFAoRtGlPgsYlT9XVYKK" %}
{% endtab %}

{% tab title="Methodology Validation Report" %}
Not validated yet
{% endtab %}

{% tab title="Public Consultation" %}

#### Public consultation 27. April 2026 - 27. May 2026

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[M-ICR017](/documentation/icr-program/public-consultation/methodologies/2026/m-icr017.md)
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{% endtab %}
{% endtabs %}


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