> For the complete documentation index, see [llms.txt](https://aetlas.gitbook.io/aetlas/llms.txt). Markdown versions of documentation pages are available by appending `.md` to page URLs; this page is available as [Markdown](https://aetlas.gitbook.io/aetlas/for-project-developers/references-and-other-guidance/essential-principles-for-high-quality-carbon-dioxide-removal/durability.md).

# Durability

Durability is the capacity for stored carbon to withstand reversal, or re-emission, to the atmosphere. We use the term “durability” because it is less absolute than “permanence” and acknowledges the temporal variability inherent to most forms of carbon storage. The durability of stored carbon is limited by both natural and anthropogenic risks of reversal, which can prematurely release carbon from storage. Reversals can be either intentional (e.g., changing management practices) or unintentional (e.g., natural disturbances). Longer and more durable storage terms are preferable (until widely accepted methods enable comparison of varied durability terms). We use the term “durability” because it is less absolute than “permanence” and acknowledges the temporal variability inherent to most forms of carbon storage. 

### Project Developers Must 

* Provide a projected duration (in years) over which removed carbon will be stored. 
* Implement an MRV plan to monitor the stored carbon and reliably detect reversal events. 
* Conservatively estimate a project’s risk of reversal using the best available science, including planning for present and future climate change. 
* Identify who is liable for remediating the reversal of stored carbon and the length of this liability (e.g., number of years). 

### Project Developers Should 

* Site projects in areas with low risk of reversal and implement ongoing risk mitigation measures to minimize the impact of future reversal events, including future risks associated with climate change. 
* Ensure that agreements during project execution include measures that mitigate the risk of reversals throughout and beyond the project operational lifetime. 
* Rely on insurance-type products, such as a buffer pool, to address the risk of reversal, which: 
* Reflect a scientifically substantiated, conservative risk of reversal, including possible increases in risks associated with climate change. 
* Dictate that intentional reversals must be entirely remediated, even exceeding all buffer pool contributions from the project. 
* Retire a project’s buffer pool credit contributions at the end of the project’s life.