Carbon sequestration

Definition

Carbon sequestration is the process of capturing and storing atmospheric carbon dioxide (CO2) to mitigate climate change and reduce the greenhouse effect. This method is crucial in strategies aimed at lowering the amount of CO2 in the atmosphere, thereby supporting efforts to combat global warming and promote sustainability. By sequestering carbon, we can enhance carbon sinks, which play a vital role in absorbing CO2 emissions from human activities.

5 Must Know Facts For Your Next Test

1. Carbon sequestration can occur naturally through processes like photosynthesis in plants or can be enhanced through various technological methods.
2. There are two primary types of carbon sequestration: biological sequestration, which involves storing carbon in plants and soils, and geological sequestration, which involves injecting CO2 into underground rock formations.
3. Soil management practices such as reduced tillage, cover cropping, and agroforestry can enhance the ability of soils to sequester carbon effectively.
4. Carbon capture and storage (CCS) technologies are being developed to capture CO2 emissions from industrial sources and store them underground to prevent their release into the atmosphere.
5. International agreements, like the Paris Agreement, emphasize the importance of carbon sequestration as part of broader strategies to achieve net-zero emissions.

Review Questions

• How does carbon sequestration function as a mitigation strategy for climate change?
  • Carbon sequestration serves as a crucial mitigation strategy by capturing CO2 emissions from various sources before they can enter the atmosphere. This process not only reduces the overall concentration of greenhouse gases but also enhances natural carbon sinks, such as forests and soils. By implementing effective sequestration techniques, we can significantly lower the risk of severe climate impacts while supporting ecosystem health.
• Discuss the potential challenges associated with implementing large-scale carbon sequestration projects.
  • Implementing large-scale carbon sequestration projects faces several challenges including technological barriers, high costs, and concerns about the long-term safety and permanence of stored CO2. Additionally, there are regulatory hurdles and public acceptance issues that must be addressed to ensure successful deployment. It is essential to consider these factors when planning effective mitigation strategies that rely on carbon sequestration.
• Evaluate the role of both biological and geological carbon sequestration in achieving global climate goals.
  • Both biological and geological carbon sequestration play integral roles in reaching global climate goals. Biological sequestration leverages natural processes like photosynthesis to enhance ecosystem services while simultaneously capturing atmospheric CO2. Geological sequestration provides a more direct method for dealing with emissions from industries and power generation. A balanced approach that utilizes both methods can provide a robust framework for significantly reducing greenhouse gas concentrations in the atmosphere and achieving targets outlined in international climate agreements.

Related terms

carbon sink: A natural or artificial reservoir that accumulates and stores carbon-containing compounds for an indefinite period, such as forests, oceans, and soil.

photosynthesis: The process by which green plants, algae, and some bacteria convert light energy into chemical energy, using CO2 and water to produce glucose and oxygen.

geoengineering: Deliberate interventions in the Earth's natural systems to counteract climate change, including techniques for enhancing carbon sequestration.