Carbon
Natural fibres absorb atmospheric carbon as they grow. The challenge is proving what stays stored, for how long, and under what methodology.
The EU CRCF framework
The EU Carbon Removals and Carbon Farming Regulation creates a voluntary framework for certifying permanent removals, carbon farming and carbon storage in products.
Activities need an applicable methodology and must meet rules around measurement, additionality, storage, sustainability and independent verification.
A fibre crop may form part of a qualifying land-management activity. Growing the crop alone is not automatically a certified unit.
The CRCF framework includes carbon stored for at least 35 years in long-lasting products. Bio-based construction products are one area being developed.
Biochar Carbon Removal already has an EU CRCF methodology, subject to feedstock, process, monitoring and permanence requirements.
What does this mean for Ireland?
DAFM is developing a National Carbon Farming Framework. The Department published the report from its consultation on the key principles in May 2026.
For natural fibres, the opportunity is likely to depend on the whole system: land management, traceability, processing emissions, product life and the relevant certification methodology.
There is no basis for telling a farmer that growing hemp, flax or willow automatically creates a set number of saleable carbon credits.
Natural Fibres Ireland does not issue, certify, broker or sell carbon credits. This page is a short explainer for general information.