Relae, Microsoft Released New Carbon Removal Risk Framework
The TECOP framework helps project developers and buyers navigate operational risks in carbon removal supply chains.
Updated on Sept. 26, 2026 in Remote Work
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Relae and Microsoft unveiled the sixth edition of their Criteria for High-Quality Carbon Dioxide Removal during Climate Week. The new TECOP framework provides a standardized method to assess execution risks in both closed facility-based and decentralized open carbon removal systems.
Why it matters
Contracted volumes of durable carbon removal have reached tens of millions of metric tons, but actual deliveries lag due to persistent supply chain and execution bottlenecks. This framework aims to stabilize these projects by forcing developers to prove long-term governance.
The TECOP framework evaluates projects across 5 distinct operational dimensions compared to previous less-structured approaches. It addresses the execution gap currently affecting tens of millions of metric tons of contracted durable carbon removal.
The players
Relae
A developer and standards-setter focused on high-quality, durable carbon dioxide removal projects.
Microsoft
A global technology company that is a major buyer and strategic backer of carbon removal market standards.
The details
The TECOP framework breaks down project viability into technical, economic, commercial, organizational, and political dimensions. It requires developers to demonstrate robust supply chain governance and establish durable, long-term contractual agreements. By distinguishing between closed facility-based systems and decentralized open systems, the criteria allow buyers to better isolate specific operational bottlenecks and counter-party risks.
Timeline
The framework was released on September 26, 2026.
Market Landscape
This release follows the precedent set by earlier iterations of the Criteria for High-Quality Carbon Dioxide Removal to professionalize the sector. It marks a shift toward rigorous operational auditing as the industry moves from pilot phases to scaling tens of millions of tons.
Operators managing or financing carbon removal projects should prepare to align their supply chain documentation with the five TECOP dimensions immediately. Buyers should use these criteria to audit existing contracts to determine which current commitments face the highest risk of non-delivery.
The takeaway
The gap between contracted carbon removal and actual delivery represents a significant operational risk for climate-focused businesses. Project managers should monitor their supply chain governance against these five TECOP dimensions to ensure long-term contractual viability.
Further reading
For more on evolving standards in distributed operations, visit our Remote Work section.
Source note: This article includes information reported by Biochar Today.
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Do you trust that large-scale carbon removal projects can actually deliver on their environmental promises?
