Most significantly, Net Zero will require the development of a UK greenhouse gas removal (GGR) ‘solutions bank’ involving nature-based and technological options that removes 60-90 megatonnes of CO2 each year by 2050.

GGR solutions can come in many forms but are typically categorised as either nature-based or engineering / mechanical-based solutions. Either solution type will require substantive engagement with communities, society and industry to establish the necessary infrastructure and management practices.

Net Zero will require disruptive change to take place concurrently across multiple industrial sectors, a technological diffusion at a rate unprecedented in the post-industrial era.

An unprecedented level of investment will need to take place for GGR solutions to be realised at the scales required. The public, private and third sectors face an enormous challenge to ensure these technologies can be delivered effectively, promptly, sustainably and equitably.

There are many opportunities today to start removal of carbon from our atmosphere, mostly through Nature-based Solutions (NBS) but increasingly through emergent engineered solutions, such as Direct Air Capture systems. Designing and deploying these solutions cost effectively requires a breadth of knowledge and expertise across many disciplines.