Carbon capture and storage

Definition

Carbon capture and storage (CCS) is a technology designed to capture carbon dioxide emissions produced from the use of fossil fuels in electricity generation and industrial processes, preventing the CO2 from entering the atmosphere. This technology involves capturing the carbon dioxide, transporting it to a storage site, and then storing it underground in geological formations. CCS plays a vital role in strategies aimed at reducing greenhouse gas emissions and combating climate change while allowing for continued fossil fuel usage during the transition to renewable energy sources.

5 Must Know Facts For Your Next Test

1. CCS technology can potentially reduce emissions from power plants by up to 90%, significantly lowering the carbon footprint associated with fossil fuel combustion.
2. The captured carbon dioxide can be utilized for enhanced oil recovery (EOR), where it is injected into oil fields to increase oil production while simultaneously storing CO2.
3. Geological formations suitable for CO2 storage include depleted oil and gas fields, deep saline aquifers, and unmineable coal seams, which provide secure locations for long-term storage.
4. Successful implementation of CCS requires significant investment in infrastructure for transportation and monitoring to ensure that stored CO2 does not leak back into the atmosphere.
5. CCS is considered a crucial technology for achieving net-zero emissions targets while still relying on fossil fuels during the transition to more sustainable energy systems.

Review Questions

• How does carbon capture and storage contribute to mitigating climate change while still allowing for fossil fuel usage?
  • Carbon capture and storage (CCS) helps mitigate climate change by capturing up to 90% of carbon dioxide emissions produced during fossil fuel combustion before they can enter the atmosphere. This allows power plants and industrial facilities to continue operating while reducing their overall carbon footprint. By providing a means to utilize fossil fuels more sustainably, CCS serves as a bridge technology that supports the transition toward renewable energy sources without abruptly phasing out fossil fuels.
• Evaluate the potential challenges and limitations of implementing carbon capture and storage technology on a large scale.
  • Implementing carbon capture and storage on a large scale presents several challenges, including high costs associated with technology development, infrastructure investment, and ongoing monitoring of storage sites. Additionally, public perception and regulatory hurdles can slow down deployment. There is also uncertainty regarding the long-term stability of CO2 storage sites and the potential for leakage. Addressing these challenges is essential for realizing the full potential of CCS as part of comprehensive climate change strategies.
• Assess the role of carbon capture and storage in achieving net-zero emissions goals and its implications for future energy systems.
  • Carbon capture and storage is critical in achieving net-zero emissions goals because it enables continued use of fossil fuels while significantly reducing their environmental impact. As countries aim for net-zero targets, CCS provides an avenue for heavy industries and power generation sectors to lower their greenhouse gas emissions effectively. The integration of CCS into future energy systems suggests a hybrid approach that balances renewable energy development with existing infrastructure, which is essential for a smoother transition towards sustainability without economic disruption.

Related terms

Carbon sequestration: The process of storing carbon dioxide in underground geological formations or other long-term storage methods to prevent its release into the atmosphere.

Greenhouse gases: Gases such as carbon dioxide and methane that trap heat in the atmosphere, contributing to global warming and climate change.

Renewable energy: Energy derived from natural processes that are replenished at a faster rate than they are consumed, such as solar, wind, and hydroelectric power.