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 essential in addressing the causes of climate change by removing CO2 from the atmosphere, which plays a significant role in global warming. By utilizing natural processes like photosynthesis or technological solutions, carbon sequestration can help enhance carbon sinks and contribute to sustainability efforts in various ecosystems.

5 Must Know Facts For Your Next Test

1. Carbon sequestration can occur naturally through processes like forest growth, soil development, and ocean absorption of CO2.
2. Technological methods of carbon sequestration include direct air capture and geological storage, where CO2 is injected into underground rock formations for long-term storage.
3. Land-use practices like reforestation, afforestation, and sustainable agriculture can enhance natural carbon sequestration capabilities.
4. Effective carbon sequestration strategies can significantly contribute to achieving net-zero emissions targets by offsetting emissions from human activities.
5. Investing in carbon sequestration technologies can create economic opportunities in emerging green sectors while combating climate change.

Review Questions

• How does carbon sequestration contribute to mitigating climate change and what are its natural mechanisms?
  • Carbon sequestration contributes to mitigating climate change by capturing atmospheric CO2, which reduces the overall concentration of greenhouse gases. Natural mechanisms include processes such as photosynthesis performed by plants and trees that absorb CO2 to produce oxygen, as well as the storage of carbon in soils and oceans. These natural systems act as carbon sinks, helping to balance CO2 levels and support healthier ecosystems.
• What are the differences between natural and technological methods of carbon sequestration, and how do they complement each other?
  • Natural methods of carbon sequestration include biological processes such as forest growth, soil formation, and wetland restoration that absorb CO2 from the atmosphere. Technological methods involve engineered solutions like direct air capture systems and geological storage where captured CO2 is injected underground. These approaches complement each other; natural methods enhance ecosystem health while technological solutions can address immediate emissions from industrial sources, creating a multi-faceted strategy for reducing atmospheric CO2.
• Evaluate the potential economic impacts of advancing carbon sequestration technologies on global industries and job markets.
  • Advancing carbon sequestration technologies has the potential to significantly impact global industries by fostering innovation in the green technology sector. As governments enforce stricter emissions regulations, industries will likely need to invest in these technologies to comply, leading to job creation in research, development, implementation, and maintenance of carbon capture systems. Additionally, sectors like agriculture may see a transformation as sustainable practices are adopted to enhance carbon sinks, ultimately driving economic growth while addressing climate change challenges.

Related terms

Carbon Sink: A natural or artificial reservoir that accumulates and stores carbon, helping to reduce atmospheric CO2 levels.

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

Greenhouse Gases: Gases in Earth's atmosphere that trap heat, contributing to the greenhouse effect and climate change; carbon dioxide is one of the most significant greenhouse gases.