Carbon capture and storage

Definition

Carbon capture and storage (CCS) is a technology that involves capturing carbon dioxide emissions produced from the use of fossil fuels in electricity generation and industrial processes, transporting the captured CO2 to a storage site, and depositing it underground to prevent it from entering the atmosphere. This process is crucial in mitigating climate change by reducing greenhouse gas emissions and is closely linked to discussions on the environmental impacts of resource extraction.

5 Must Know Facts For Your Next Test

1. CCS can potentially reduce up to 90% of CO2 emissions from power plants and industrial facilities when implemented effectively.
2. The storage sites for captured CO2 are typically deep geological formations, such as depleted oil and gas fields or deep saline aquifers, which can securely contain the gas.
3. CCS is often viewed as a necessary technology for achieving net-zero emissions targets, especially in sectors that are difficult to decarbonize, like cement and steel manufacturing.
4. The development of CCS technologies requires significant investment in infrastructure and research to ensure safety, efficiency, and economic viability.
5. Concerns about the environmental impacts of resource extraction, such as land use changes and potential leaks from storage sites, highlight the need for comprehensive risk assessments in CCS projects.

Review Questions

• How does carbon capture and storage technology contribute to reducing greenhouse gas emissions?
  • Carbon capture and storage technology contributes to reducing greenhouse gas emissions by capturing carbon dioxide released during fossil fuel combustion before it enters the atmosphere. By isolating these emissions at their source, CCS helps mitigate climate change effects. This process is particularly important for power plants and industries that rely heavily on fossil fuels, as it allows them to continue operations while lowering their overall carbon footprint.
• Evaluate the potential benefits and challenges associated with implementing carbon capture and storage in resource extraction industries.
  • The potential benefits of implementing carbon capture and storage in resource extraction industries include significant reductions in carbon emissions, enabling continued fossil fuel use while addressing climate change concerns. However, challenges exist, such as high costs associated with capturing and transporting CO2, ensuring safe long-term storage to prevent leaks, and gaining public acceptance. Balancing these factors is crucial for the successful integration of CCS into these industries.
• Critically analyze the role of carbon capture and storage in achieving global climate targets while addressing the environmental impacts of resource extraction.
  • Carbon capture and storage plays a pivotal role in achieving global climate targets by offering a viable solution for reducing emissions from resource extraction activities. However, its effectiveness hinges on overcoming environmental concerns related to land use, potential leaks from storage sites, and ensuring that CCS does not encourage continued reliance on fossil fuels instead of promoting renewable energy sources. A comprehensive approach that includes CCS alongside other sustainable practices will be essential for effectively addressing climate change while managing the environmental impacts of resource extraction.

Related terms

Fossil Fuels: Natural substances like coal, oil, and natural gas formed from decomposed plants and animals that release carbon dioxide when burned for energy.

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

Sequestration: The process of storing carbon dioxide in geological formations or other long-term storage solutions to reduce its impact on the environment.