Carbon capture and storage

Definition

Carbon capture and storage (CCS) is a technology designed to capture carbon dioxide (CO2) emissions produced from the use of fossil fuels in electricity generation and industrial processes, preventing the CO2 from entering the atmosphere. This process involves capturing CO2 at its source, transporting it to a storage site, and then depositing it underground in geological formations for long-term containment. CCS plays a critical role in efforts to reduce greenhouse gas emissions and mitigate climate change impacts.

5 Must Know Facts For Your Next Test

1. CCS can potentially reduce CO2 emissions from industrial sources by up to 90%, making it an essential technology for achieving global climate goals.
2. The captured CO2 is typically transported via pipelines to designated storage sites, which may be located hundreds of miles away from the source of emissions.
3. Geological formations suitable for CO2 storage include depleted oil and gas fields, deep saline aquifers, and unmineable coal seams.
4. Implementation of CCS is crucial for hard-to-abate sectors such as cement, steel, and chemical manufacturing where alternatives to fossil fuels are limited.
5. Public acceptance and regulatory frameworks are significant challenges for the widespread adoption of CCS technologies, impacting investment and development.

Review Questions

• How does carbon capture and storage contribute to reducing greenhouse gas emissions?
  • Carbon capture and storage helps reduce greenhouse gas emissions by capturing carbon dioxide produced during fossil fuel combustion before it can enter the atmosphere. This technology is particularly valuable in industries that are difficult to decarbonize, such as cement or steel manufacturing. By preventing significant amounts of CO2 from being released into the air, CCS can play a crucial role in achieving climate targets and mitigating climate change.
• Evaluate the economic implications of implementing carbon capture and storage on a large scale.
  • Implementing carbon capture and storage on a large scale has significant economic implications. While CCS can lead to substantial reductions in emissions, the technology is often costly due to high capital investments and operational expenses. This can affect energy prices and potentially lead to higher costs for consumers. However, if integrated effectively with policy incentives and market mechanisms, CCS could also create new jobs and stimulate innovation in related industries.
• Synthesize the challenges and benefits of carbon capture and storage in the context of global climate change strategies.
  • Carbon capture and storage presents both challenges and benefits within global climate change strategies. On one hand, CCS is a powerful tool for reducing emissions from fossil fuel-intensive industries and could significantly contribute to meeting climate goals. On the other hand, challenges such as high costs, regulatory hurdles, public acceptance issues, and the need for extensive infrastructure can hinder its deployment. A balanced approach that includes investment in research, supportive policies, and public engagement is essential for maximizing the potential benefits of CCS while addressing its challenges.

Related terms

greenhouse gases: Gases in Earth's atmosphere that trap heat, contributing to the greenhouse effect; major types include CO2, methane, and nitrous oxide.

renewable energy:

Energy derived from natural sources that are replenished faster than they are consumed, such as solar, wind, and hydroelectric power.

geological sequestration: The process of storing captured carbon dioxide in deep underground rock formations to prevent it from entering the atmosphere.