The BECCS Doughnut: A strong sustainability framework for assessing implementation strategies for Bioenergy with Carbon Capture and Storage (BECCS)

Abstract: Bioenergy with Carbon Capture and Storage (BECCS) is a largely promoted, but also heavily contested solution to the problem of climate change. Whilst removing carbon from the atmosphere, it potentially leads to detrimental side effects. This thesis provides guidance for NGOs, industry and policymakers in Germany and the wider EU context on how to assess the sustainability of BECCS implementation proposals. Based on a systematic literature review and semi-structured interviews, a new conceptual model, the BECCS-Doughnut, with a comprehensive set of social and ecological sustainability assessment dimensions has been developed. Furthermore, implementation trade-offs and coping strategies are evaluated. A decision tree for sustainability assessments is presented in accordance with the suggested principle of limited and targeted BECCS implementation. This implementation principle can structure the urgently needed democratic debate on if and how to implement BECCS from a strong sustainability perspective with a focus on critical ecological thresholds and social justice.