Carbon capture and storage

Definition

Carbon capture and storage (CCS) is a technology that captures carbon dioxide (CO2) emissions from sources like power plants and industrial processes, preventing them from entering the atmosphere. This method helps mitigate climate change by reducing greenhouse gas concentrations in the air and involves transporting the captured CO2 to storage sites where it is injected underground in geological formations. By linking CCS to sustainable practices, it plays a crucial role in balancing the carbon cycle and supporting clean technologies.

5 Must Know Facts For Your Next Test

1. CCS can reduce CO2 emissions by up to 90% from fossil fuel-based power plants, making it a vital technology for climate change mitigation.
2. The captured CO2 is often stored in depleted oil and gas fields or deep saline aquifers, which are geological formations that can securely contain the gas.
3. Implementing CCS technologies not only helps fight climate change but also supports industries in transitioning towards lower emissions.
4. There are ongoing debates about the cost-effectiveness of CCS, with concerns about the high expenses related to capturing, transporting, and storing CO2.
5. CCS is recognized as a necessary solution for achieving net-zero emissions targets, particularly for sectors that are hard to decarbonize.

Review Questions

• How does carbon capture and storage help regulate the carbon cycle and contribute to climate stability?
  • Carbon capture and storage (CCS) helps regulate the carbon cycle by capturing CO2 emissions before they can contribute to atmospheric levels. By preventing these emissions from entering the atmosphere, CCS aids in maintaining balance within the carbon cycle, which is essential for climate stability. This technology addresses one of the primary sources of greenhouse gases, enabling a reduction in global warming potential while allowing continued use of fossil fuels during the transition to cleaner energy sources.
• Evaluate the role of carbon capture and storage within the context of eco-innovation and clean technologies.
  • Carbon capture and storage is a key component of eco-innovation as it represents a technological advancement aimed at reducing environmental impact. By integrating CCS with other clean technologies like renewable energy systems, it enhances overall energy efficiency and helps industries decrease their carbon footprint. The development and deployment of CCS technologies encourage investment in greener practices while providing industries with a viable path to meet regulatory requirements and public demand for sustainability.
• Assess the long-term implications of widespread carbon capture and storage adoption on global energy systems and climate policy.
  • Widespread adoption of carbon capture and storage could significantly transform global energy systems by promoting a shift towards more sustainable practices while still relying on fossil fuels during transition periods. As nations implement stricter climate policies to achieve net-zero goals, CCS can play a vital role in decarbonizing hard-to-abate sectors like cement and steel production. However, reliance on CCS may also lead to challenges regarding investments in renewable energy development, as stakeholders might prioritize immediate solutions over long-term sustainable energy strategies. Balancing these factors will be crucial for effective climate policy moving forward.

Related terms

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

Sequestration: The process of storing carbon dioxide in geological formations or natural systems to prevent its release into the atmosphere.

Renewable Energy: Energy sources that are naturally replenished, such as solar, wind, and hydroelectric power, often seen as alternatives to fossil fuels.