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 CO2 from entering the atmosphere. By capturing these emissions and storing them underground, CCS helps mitigate climate change, making it a crucial component in transitioning towards a more sustainable energy future.

5 Must Know Facts For Your Next Test

1. CCS can reduce CO2 emissions from large point sources like power plants by up to 90%, making it an effective tool for meeting climate targets.
2. The captured CO2 is typically transported via pipelines to storage sites where it is injected deep underground into geological formations.
3. CCS has potential applications not only in power generation but also in industries such as cement, steel, and chemicals, which are difficult to decarbonize.
4. Research and development in CCS technology are essential for improving its efficiency and reducing costs, making it more accessible for widespread adoption.
5. As part of a broader strategy for climate change mitigation, CCS is often seen as a bridge solution until renewable energy sources can fully replace fossil fuels.

Review Questions

• How does carbon capture and storage contribute to reducing greenhouse gas emissions from industrial processes?
  • Carbon capture and storage contributes to reducing greenhouse gas emissions by capturing CO2 produced during industrial activities before it can escape into the atmosphere. This technology targets large point sources of emissions, such as power plants and factories, which are responsible for a significant portion of greenhouse gases. By preventing these emissions from contributing to climate change, CCS plays a critical role in helping industries transition towards more sustainable practices while still relying on fossil fuels.
• Evaluate the challenges associated with the implementation of carbon capture and storage technologies in existing power plants.
  • Implementing carbon capture and storage technologies in existing power plants presents several challenges. Firstly, there are high capital costs involved in retrofitting plants with CCS systems, which can deter investment. Secondly, the efficiency of current plants may be affected due to the energy required for capturing and compressing CO2. Additionally, there are regulatory and public perception issues surrounding the safety of long-term CO2 storage underground. Addressing these challenges requires coordinated efforts among engineers, policymakers, and industry stakeholders.
• Propose innovative strategies that could enhance the effectiveness of carbon capture and storage as part of a comprehensive approach to climate change mitigation.
  • To enhance the effectiveness of carbon capture and storage as a climate change mitigation strategy, several innovative approaches could be implemented. For instance, integrating CCS with bioenergy production could lead to negative emissions when biomass is used in conjunction with carbon capture. Additionally, investing in research for advanced materials that improve capture efficiency could reduce costs. Implementing policies that incentivize the adoption of CCS technologies alongside renewable energy investments would create a balanced approach. Furthermore, fostering public engagement and education around CCS could help address safety concerns and promote wider acceptance.

Related terms

Greenhouse gases: Gases in the Earth's atmosphere that trap heat, including carbon dioxide, methane, and nitrous oxide, which contribute to the greenhouse effect and global warming.

Fossil fuels: Natural substances such as coal, oil, and natural gas formed from decomposed organic material over millions of years, primarily used for energy production but responsible for significant carbon emissions.

Geological sequestration: A process that involves storing captured carbon dioxide in underground rock formations, where it can be safely contained to prevent it from re-entering the atmosphere.