The U.S. Department of Agriculture's Forest Service has introduced a Notice of Proposed Rulemaking (NPRM) aimed at facilitating carbon capture and sequestration projects on national forests and grasslands. This move is in line with the broader commitment of the Biden-Harris Administration to achieve a net-zero emissions economy by 2050.

 
If finalized, the proposed rule would streamline the process for considering proposals related to carbon capture. Carbon capture and sequestration involve capturing emissions and storing them deep underground. The International Energy Agency emphasizes that capturing and sequestering 1.2 gigatons of carbon dioxide annually by 2030 is vital to achieving net-zero emissions by 2050 globally.

The proposed rule aims to permit applications for carbon sequestration on national forests or grasslands for permanent use. It modifies initial screening criteria specifically for carbon capture projects, excluding other permanent uses.

The Forest Service, under this proposal, ensures a rigorous process. Any carbon sequestration project must comply with the National Environmental Policy Act and gain approval from an authorized officer. Importantly, the amendment does not override existing tribal treaty rights, agreements, authorities, and land use.

The proposed amendment does not currently pertain to any specific project proposals, as each would undergo secondary screening and rigorous evaluation processes, including permits from the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency.

https://www.fs.usda.gov/news/releases/usda-forest-service-proposes-rule-facilitate-carbon-capture-and-sequestration