Carbon sequestration

Definition

Carbon sequestration is the process of capturing and storing atmospheric carbon dioxide (CO2) to mitigate climate change and reduce greenhouse gas concentrations. This can occur naturally through biological processes like photosynthesis or artificially through technologies that capture CO2 emissions from sources like power plants. Effective carbon sequestration plays a vital role in both green infrastructure and low impact development by promoting sustainable practices that help maintain environmental balance.

5 Must Know Facts For Your Next Test

1. Carbon sequestration can occur naturally in forests, soils, and oceans, where ecosystems absorb and store CO2.
2. Artificial carbon sequestration techniques include carbon capture and storage (CCS), where CO2 is captured from emission sources and stored underground or in geological formations.
3. Green infrastructure projects, like urban green spaces, not only help sequester carbon but also improve air quality and enhance community resilience against climate impacts.
4. Low impact development focuses on using natural processes for stormwater management, which can also aid in carbon sequestration by preserving green spaces.
5. Effective carbon sequestration strategies can lead to long-term reductions in atmospheric CO2 levels, contributing to climate change mitigation efforts.

Review Questions

• How does carbon sequestration contribute to sustainable practices within urban planning?
  • Carbon sequestration contributes to sustainable practices in urban planning by integrating green infrastructure such as parks, green roofs, and tree canopies. These elements not only capture CO2 but also enhance air quality, provide shade, and manage stormwater. By incorporating these features into urban environments, planners can create resilient communities that effectively combat climate change while improving the quality of life for residents.
• Discuss the role of technology in artificial carbon sequestration methods and their impact on climate change mitigation.
  • Technology plays a critical role in artificial carbon sequestration methods such as carbon capture and storage (CCS). These technologies are designed to capture CO2 emissions from sources like power plants before they enter the atmosphere. Once captured, the CO2 is compressed and transported for long-term storage underground. This process not only reduces greenhouse gas emissions but also supports efforts to transition to cleaner energy systems, making it a significant tool for climate change mitigation.
• Evaluate the effectiveness of combining natural and artificial carbon sequestration strategies in combating climate change.
  • Combining natural and artificial carbon sequestration strategies creates a more comprehensive approach to combating climate change. Natural methods such as afforestation or enhancing soil health leverage existing ecosystems' abilities to sequester carbon while also providing co-benefits like biodiversity support and improved water quality. On the other hand, artificial methods like CCS offer immediate reductions in industrial emissions. This dual approach maximizes carbon storage potential and enhances resilience against climate impacts, making it a powerful strategy for long-term climate goals.

Related terms

Photosynthesis: The process by which green plants and some other organisms use sunlight to synthesize foods with the help of chlorophyll, while absorbing CO2 and releasing oxygen.

Greenhouse Gases: Gases in Earth's atmosphere that trap heat, including CO2, methane, and nitrous oxide, contributing to the greenhouse effect and global warming.

Urban Forestry: The management and study of trees in urban settings, which helps enhance carbon sequestration while providing multiple environmental benefits.