Like-for-Like Principle Offers Clear Path to Durable Net-Zero

A new paper by Carbon Gap explains why the application of the Like-for-Like (LfL) principle is needed for carbon removals as a practical tool to help stabilise global warming. Durable net-zero can be achieved by implementing the LfL principle and rebalancing carbon flows between the fast and long carbon cycles.

The paper states that fossil emissions must be balanced with permanent removals; biogenic and temporary removals can address biogenic emissions and short-lived pollutants such as methane can be managed through approaches appropriate for their faster warming cycle.

The implementation of the LfL principle brings challenges. The paper therefore outlines possible implementation pathways to gather the enabling conditions and make the principle progressively workable for governments and markets.

“Implementation of the LfL principle would set a clear direction of travel to reach net-zero. We advocate for policymakers to include the Like-for-Like principle in legislation to boost the relevance of net-zero strategies and provide clarity on how to scale and use CDR.”

Says Carbon Gap’s Chief Scientist Sylvain Delerce.

Carbon Gap believes that the Like-for-Like principle must be enshrined into legislation now, with mechanisms included for gradual implementation, to bring much-needed clarity for investors, buyers, and policy makers. This clarity would enable the carbon removal sector to scale in line with the objectives of the Paris Agreement.

Embedding the LfL principle into legislation would strengthen the credibility of net-zero strategies. It would also send a clear signal that the scale of permanent removals must expand. At the same time, it would define appropriate use cases for temporary removals and reinforce the incentive to cut emissions by making their neutralisation more rigorous and, at first, more costly.