Sustainable Supply Chain Management

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Carbon Capture Technology

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Sustainable Supply Chain Management

Definition

Carbon capture technology refers to a set of processes designed to capture carbon dioxide (CO2) emissions produced from the use of fossil fuels in electricity generation and industrial processes. This technology aims to prevent CO2 from entering the atmosphere, thereby mitigating climate change and reducing air pollution. By capturing this greenhouse gas, it can be stored underground or utilized in various applications, contributing to cleaner air and a more sustainable environment.

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5 Must Know Facts For Your Next Test

  1. Carbon capture technology can reduce CO2 emissions by up to 90% from industrial sources, making it a crucial tool for achieving climate goals.
  2. The captured CO2 can be utilized in various ways, such as in enhanced oil recovery, which helps to extract more oil from existing fields.
  3. There are three main types of carbon capture technology: pre-combustion capture, post-combustion capture, and oxy-fuel combustion.
  4. Implementing carbon capture technology can be expensive, with costs depending on the technology used and the scale of the operation.
  5. Carbon capture is often paired with storage solutions to ensure that the captured CO2 does not re-enter the atmosphere, providing a long-term solution to air pollution.

Review Questions

  • How does carbon capture technology work and what are its main methods?
    • Carbon capture technology works by capturing carbon dioxide emissions before they can enter the atmosphere. The main methods include pre-combustion capture, where CO2 is removed before fuel combustion; post-combustion capture, which captures CO2 after combustion has occurred; and oxy-fuel combustion, which burns fuel in pure oxygen to produce a concentrated stream of CO2 for easier capture. Each method has its own advantages and challenges depending on the application.
  • Discuss the potential benefits and drawbacks of implementing carbon capture technology in industrial processes.
    • Implementing carbon capture technology offers significant benefits like reducing greenhouse gas emissions and helping industries comply with stricter environmental regulations. It can also enhance energy security by enabling continued use of fossil fuels while transitioning to cleaner energy sources. However, drawbacks include high implementation costs and the need for safe long-term storage solutions for captured CO2. There are also concerns about potential environmental impacts associated with underground storage.
  • Evaluate the role of carbon capture technology in addressing global climate change and its relationship with other sustainable practices.
    • Carbon capture technology plays a critical role in combating global climate change by significantly reducing CO2 emissions from major sources like power plants and industrial facilities. When combined with renewable energy practices and energy efficiency measures, it creates a more comprehensive approach to sustainability. However, relying solely on carbon capture may distract from the necessary transition to renewable energy sources. An effective climate strategy must integrate carbon capture with other sustainable practices to ensure long-term solutions for air quality and climate resilience.

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