Carbon sequestration

Definition

Carbon sequestration is the process of capturing and storing atmospheric carbon dioxide (CO2) to mitigate climate change and its impacts. This natural or artificial method reduces the amount of CO2 in the atmosphere, which helps to regulate global temperatures and supports biodiversity by maintaining stable ecosystems.

5 Must Know Facts For Your Next Test

1. Carbon sequestration occurs naturally through processes like photosynthesis, where plants absorb CO2 from the atmosphere.
2. There are two main types of carbon sequestration: biological (involving living organisms) and geological (storing CO2 underground).
3. Forests, oceans, and soil are significant carbon sinks, meaning they can store large amounts of carbon for extended periods.
4. Effective carbon sequestration can enhance biodiversity by creating stable environments that support various species.
5. Technological advancements in carbon capture and storage (CCS) aim to improve the efficiency of trapping CO2 from industrial processes before it enters the atmosphere.

Review Questions

• How does carbon sequestration contribute to maintaining biodiversity within ecosystems?
  • Carbon sequestration contributes to biodiversity by stabilizing ecosystems that are critical for various species' survival. When atmospheric CO2 levels are reduced, it can help prevent climate change impacts such as extreme weather and habitat loss. Healthy ecosystems that result from effective carbon storage support a wide variety of plants and animals, maintaining ecological balance and resilience.
• Evaluate the effectiveness of biological versus geological carbon sequestration methods in terms of their impact on biodiversity.
  • Biological carbon sequestration is often more beneficial for biodiversity since it involves natural processes like plant growth, which can enhance habitat availability for various species. On the other hand, geological sequestration involves storing CO2 underground, which might not directly impact biodiversity but can help mitigate climate change effects that threaten habitats. Both methods are important, but biological approaches typically have more immediate positive effects on ecosystem health.
• Synthesize the relationship between carbon sequestration techniques and their broader implications for climate change mitigation strategies and biodiversity conservation.
  • Carbon sequestration techniques play a crucial role in climate change mitigation strategies by reducing atmospheric CO2 levels, which is essential for slowing global warming. This reduction not only helps stabilize climate conditions but also fosters environments where biodiversity can thrive. The integration of carbon sequestration into conservation practices enhances ecosystem resilience and ensures that diverse species can adapt to changing climates, ultimately supporting a sustainable future.

Related terms

photosynthesis: The process by which green plants, algae, and some bacteria convert light energy into chemical energy, using CO2 and water to produce glucose and oxygen.

biomass: Organic material derived from plants and animals, which can be used as a renewable energy source and plays a key role in carbon storage when it decomposes or is converted to energy.

greenhouse gases: Gases that trap heat in the atmosphere, including CO2, methane (CH4), and nitrous oxide (N2O), contributing to the greenhouse effect and global warming.