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Clean Industrial Deal: another missed opportunity for scaling up carbon removal in Europe

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Key takeaways:

  • The CID acknowledges the need to create a business case for permanent carbon removal, but it mainly focuses on ETS integration as a way forward, missing the opportunity to propose other dedicated policies to drive CDR demand.
  • Several CID initiatives should be leveraged to strengthen EU carbon removal leadership: procurement, the Industrial Decarbonisation Accelerator Act, the Industrial Decarbonisation Bank, IPCEI, tax incentives, competitiveness funding etc.
  • Without direct support for carbon removal, the EU risks falling behind the US, Canada, and Switzerland, threatening both the EU’s climate goals and the economic opportunity to unlock a €220 billion annual market and 670,000 high-quality jobs in Europe.

Brussels, 25 February 2025: Today, the European Commission published its Clean Industrial Deal (CID), aiming to bring together climate and competitiveness under one overarching growth strategy. Last month’s Competitiveness Compass gave the carbon dioxide removal (CDR) sector a reason to hope for a roadmap with concrete proposals for the sector. Yet, despite acknowledging the urgent need to create a business case for permanent CDR, the CID fails to propose tangible deployment incentives for CDR scale up in the short and medium term.

Promising acknowledgement of the need to build a business case for permanent removals

Building on the net 90% emissions reduction target for 2040 expected in March, the CID emphasises the importance of long-term policy certainty. The CID’s emphasis on EU-made clean manufacturing signals Europe’s ambition to become a clean tech powerhouse — an ambition that should also extend to championing CDR. To that end, we welcome CID’s explicit recognition of the need to build a business case for permanent CDR to compensate for residual emissions from hard-to-abate sectors.

The CID recognises a €480 billion annual funding gap for the wider clean transition, which it proposes to address in part through the creation of new initiatives, and leveraging support through multiple existing channels:

  • EU-level mechanisms including the creation of a new Competitiveness Fund, enhanced Innovation Fund support, and a Horizon Europe fit-for-deployment call;
  • State aid and national support schemes;
  • Strengthened private investment through InvestEU and EIB collaboration.

However, it remains unclear whether and by how much these commitments will specifically target CDR.

Concerning lack of clear CDR roadmap threatens EU climate and competitiveness goals

The CID stresses the need for certainty and predictability in industrial policy. Yet, by mainly focusing on ETS integration, it ends up underdelivering those needs. An exclusive focus on long term compliance limits the ability for a wide portfolio of removals to come forward in the EU. There is a clear need for near-term interventions to support early CDR deployment and get innovative projects off the ground.

The EU risks lagging behind the US, Canada and Switzerland, which have already mobilised significant financial support for CDR,” said Rodica Avornic, Policy Director at Carbon Gap. With compliance measures only taking effect in at least 5 years, the EU urgently needs interim deployment incentives to scale up the CDR sector and be competitive. Several upcoming initiatives under the Clean Industrial Deal – such as the Industrial Decarbonisation Accelerator Act and the revision of procurement rules – must be leveraged to achieve effective CDR scale-up.

Looking forward: opportunities for CDR

Several CID initiatives must be leveraged to strengthen EU support for CDR:

  1. In revising EU public procurement rules, the EU should borrow from approaches we’ve seen in US (New York and New Jersey) and European countries (Finland and Switzerland), where procurement rules have promoted CDR integration into supply chains. Additionally, the EU must explore direct forms of procurement such as setting up a dedicated call under the Innovation Fund.
  1. The upcoming Industrial Decarbonisation Accelerator Act should incentivise heavy-emitting industries to integrate permanent CDR into decarbonisation strategies, as well as streamline permitting procedures while ensuring that sustainability criteria remain.
  1. EU funding programmes must explicitly and sufficiently target the full portfolio of CDR methods across all development stages. At least €2.6 billion are needed in the next EU funding cycle to support RD&I for CDR.
  1. The acceleration of Important Projects of Common European Interest (IPCEI) could unlock their potential for CDR, given the cross-border nature of CO2 infrastructure.
  1. The proposed Industrial Decarbonisation Bank should be a critical source of support for CDR. With contracts for difference complementing the compliance market in the 2030s, the Bank should explicitly recognise CDR in its scope and include targeted allocation rounds for different CDR methods.
  1. In its expected guidelines for tax incentives, the EU should borrow from the successful tax-based incentives for CDR in the US and Canada, enabling capital investments that get early-stage projects off the ground.

As the US steps back from its climate ambitions, the EU should not miss out on the opportunity to assume global leadership by putting CDR on the path to success. Failing to act now would sideline a sector critical to both EU climate goals and economic growth. By 2050, CDR could unlock a €220 billion annual market, create 670,000 high-quality jobs, drive innovation, and solidify Europe’s position as a global leader in the clean economy. The implementation of the Clean Industrial Deal is an opportunity to get this right.

END OF PRESS RELEASE

NOTES FOR EDITORS

Carbon Gap is an independent, philanthropically funded non-profit organisation focused on rapidly and responsibly scaling up carbon dioxide removal in Europe, as an important complement to emissions reductions.

Useful materials:

Contact details of Carbon Gap experts available for comment:

Media enquiries must also be addressed to Carbon Gap’s communications team: [email protected] (EN, FR) or [email protected] (EN, FR).

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Quantum Computing Breakthroughs: Disrupting Industries with Oxford’s Innovations

A recent breakthrough in quantum computing at the University of Oxford promises to disrupt multiple industries by significantly enhancing computational capabilities. Explore the technological implications and potential disruptions poised to redefine sectors.

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In May 2026, the University of Oxford announced a significant breakthrough in the field of quantum computing, unveiling an advanced error correction algorithm that has the potential to transform computational capabilities. This development is not just a scientific triumph; it heralds a new era of technological disruption across multiple industries. Quantum computing, long anticipated as the next frontier in technology, promises to solve complex problems beyond the reach of classical computers, and Oxford’s latest advancement brings this closer to reality.

At the core of this breakthrough is the enhancement in quantum error correction, a critical component that addresses the inherent instability of qubits, which are the fundamental units of quantum information. Traditional computers use bits of 0s and 1s, but quantum computers operate on qubits, which can exist in multiple states simultaneously. This superposition allows quantum computers to process information exponentially faster than classical computers. However, qubits are notoriously prone to errors due to environmental noise and operational inaccuracies. Oxford’s new algorithm significantly improves the error correction process, maintaining qubit stability longer and allowing extended computational tasks to be performed accurately.

The implications of this are profound. Industries ranging from pharmaceuticals to finance stand on the cusp of disruption as quantum computing offers the ability to model complex molecular structures, optimize large-scale financial portfolios, and even revolutionize artificial intelligence algorithms. In pharmaceuticals, for example, quantum computing can expedite drug discovery by accurately simulating molecular interactions, potentially reducing the time and cost associated with bringing new drugs to market. Similarly, in finance, quantum algorithms can optimize trading strategies and risk management with a precision unattainable by current technologies.

Moreover, the ripple effects of such a leap in computational power extend to data encryption and cybersecurity. Quantum computers possess the potential to decrypt classical encryption methods, prompting a race for quantum-resistant cryptography. This necessitates a paradigm shift in how we secure digital information, affecting every sector that relies on data security.

Despite the tremendous promise, the transition to quantum computing is not without its challenges. The infrastructure required to support quantum technologies is expensive and complex. There is also a significant skills gap; experts in quantum computing are scarce, and training a new generation of scientists and engineers is imperative. Furthermore, ethical considerations regarding the power of quantum computing must be addressed, particularly in terms of privacy and security.

Looking forward, as quantum computing continues to evolve, industries will need to adapt swiftly to harness its capabilities. Early adopters who invest in quantum technologies and develop quantum-ready strategies will likely dominate in the coming decade. As Oxford’s breakthrough demonstrates, the race is on to fully realize the potential of quantum computing and redefine the boundaries of what is technologically possible.

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Apple’s AI Innovations: Shaping the Competitive Landscape in 2026

Apple’s latest advancements in artificial intelligence are setting the stage for a competitive showdown with other tech giants. This article explores how Apple’s AI strategy is positioning the company in the fast-evolving tech landscape.

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In the bustling realm of technology, few companies command as much attention as Apple. In 2026, the Silicon Valley titan has once again captured the tech world’s gaze with its latest advances in artificial intelligence. As Apple unveils a suite of AI-driven innovations, the competitive landscape is poised for a seismic shift.

Apple’s strategic focus on AI is not merely about introducing new features but is a calculated move to redefine user experiences while maintaining its staunch advocacy for privacy. At the heart of Apple’s AI initiatives is the promise of personalization—an AI that learns and adapts to the user’s preferences, offering seamless interaction across its range of devices. This focus is especially pertinent in an era where user data is a hot commodity, and privacy concerns are at an all-time high.

What sets Apple apart in the AI race is its dual emphasis on innovation and privacy. While competitors like Google and Amazon have long been heralded for their AI prowess, often prioritizing expansive data collection to fuel their AI engines, Apple has carved out a niche by leveraging on-device processing. This approach not only mitigates privacy risks but also enhances real-time responsiveness, a crucial factor in user satisfaction.

The competitive implications of Apple’s AI advancements are profound. Google’s AI, renowned for its search and recommendation algorithms, faces a formidable challenger in Apple’s ecosystem-centric approach. Meanwhile, Amazon’s Alexa, which dominates the smart assistant market, must contend with Apple’s Siri, now equipped with enhanced contextual understanding and predictive capabilities.

Microsoft, another major player, has been making strides with its integration of AI in cloud services and productivity tools. However, Apple’s holistic approach—integrating AI across hardware, software, and services—presents a cohesive strategy that is difficult to replicate. This integration not only ensures a seamless user experience but also reinforces brand loyalty, a cornerstone of Apple’s business model.

As AI continues to evolve, the stakes in the tech industry are higher than ever. Apple’s innovations are not just about keeping pace but are strategically designed to place the company at the forefront of the AI revolution. In doing so, Apple is not only safeguarding its market position but is also setting new benchmarks in how technology can enhance and secure our digital lives.

The road ahead will undoubtedly see further advancements and competition, but Apple’s current trajectory suggests it is well-positioned to lead in the AI domain. By prioritizing user-centric design and privacy, Apple is not just participating in the AI race; it is setting the pace.

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AI Fitness Instructors and Unreal Gains: Revolutionizing the Fitness Industry

The rise of AI-driven fitness programs is transforming the fitness industry. Explore the technology, its impact on traditional fitness models, and how it is reshaping consumer expectations.

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Artificial intelligence is making its mark across various sectors, and the fitness industry is no exception. With the advent of AI-driven fitness instructors, there is a seismic shift underway in how fitness is perceived and pursued. This article delves into the rise of AI in fitness, examining the technology behind it, its effects on traditional fitness models, and the shifting expectations of consumers.

In recent years, AI fitness instructors have become increasingly popular, offering personalized workout programs, real-time feedback, and virtual coaching. These AI systems utilize advanced algorithms to tailor fitness routines that adapt to an individual’s progress and preferences, making fitness more accessible and engaging than ever before.

At the core of AI fitness instructors is sophisticated machine learning technology. These systems collect data from various sources, such as wearable devices and user inputs, to create personalized fitness plans. AI analyzes this data to optimize workouts, ensuring they are challenging yet achievable, and provides insights that were previously accessible only through one-on-one sessions with human trainers.

The integration of AI into fitness is transforming traditional models. Gyms and fitness centers are incorporating AI technologies to enhance their offerings, while some consumers opt for entirely virtual experiences. This shift is challenging the status quo, pushing traditional trainers to adapt by integrating technology into their own practices to remain competitive.

As AI fitness programs become more prevalent, consumer expectations are evolving. Users now demand more personalized and flexible fitness solutions that fit into their busy lifestyles. AI provides this adaptability, offering users the ability to engage in workouts anytime, anywhere, without compromising on quality or effectiveness.

Looking ahead, the role of AI in fitness is set to expand. As technology continues to advance, we can expect even more innovative solutions that enhance user experience and outcomes. AI-driven gamification elements, for example, are already being explored to increase engagement and motivation.


The rise of AI fitness instructors represents a significant evolution in the fitness industry. By offering personalized, accessible, and innovative solutions, AI is not only transforming how people engage with fitness but also challenging traditional models and expectations. As this technology continues to develop, the potential for further disruption and improvement in the fitness sector is immense.

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