Carbon capture and storage

Definition

Carbon capture and storage (CCS) is a technological process aimed at capturing carbon dioxide emissions produced from the use of fossil fuels in electricity generation and industrial processes, and storing it underground to prevent it from entering the atmosphere. This method plays a crucial role in mitigating climate change by reducing greenhouse gas emissions while allowing for continued use of fossil fuels during the transition to more sustainable energy sources.

5 Must Know Facts For Your Next Test

1. CCS technology captures up to 90% of carbon dioxide emissions produced from the use of fossil fuels.
2. The captured CO2 is typically transported via pipelines and stored in geological formations such as depleted oil and gas fields or deep saline aquifers.
3. CCS can be integrated with existing power plants or built into new facilities, making it a flexible solution for reducing emissions.
4. Many countries have invested in research and pilot projects to improve the efficiency and cost-effectiveness of CCS technologies.
5. While CCS is a promising solution for mitigating climate change, it is not a substitute for transitioning to renewable energy sources; rather, it is a complementary approach.

Review Questions

• How does carbon capture and storage contribute to mitigating climate change, and what are its limitations?
  • Carbon capture and storage contributes to mitigating climate change by significantly reducing the amount of carbon dioxide released into the atmosphere from fossil fuel use. By capturing up to 90% of emissions at power plants and industrial sites, CCS helps lower greenhouse gas concentrations. However, its limitations include high costs, the need for extensive infrastructure for transportation and storage, and concerns about the long-term stability of stored CO2 underground.
• Evaluate the economic implications of implementing carbon capture and storage technologies in existing industries.
  • Implementing carbon capture and storage technologies can have significant economic implications for industries reliant on fossil fuels. While initial investments may be high due to infrastructure upgrades and maintenance, CCS can lead to long-term savings by avoiding carbon taxes and enhancing compliance with environmental regulations. Moreover, using captured CO2 for enhanced oil recovery presents additional revenue opportunities, thus incentivizing industries to adopt these technologies despite upfront costs.
• Synthesize how advancements in carbon capture and storage technology could influence future energy policies and practices globally.
  • Advancements in carbon capture and storage technology could profoundly influence future energy policies and practices globally by promoting a more balanced approach between fossil fuel usage and renewable energy development. As CCS becomes more efficient and cost-effective, governments might integrate it into their climate strategies as a necessary tool for achieving emission reduction targets. This could lead to increased investments in research and development, shaping energy policies that facilitate a gradual transition towards sustainability while still recognizing the current reliance on fossil fuels.

Related terms

Greenhouse Gases: Gases that trap heat in the atmosphere, contributing to the greenhouse effect, with carbon dioxide being one of the most significant.

Renewable Energy: Energy derived from natural resources that are replenished on a human timescale, such as solar, wind, and hydroelectric power, which can help reduce reliance on fossil fuels.

Enhanced Oil Recovery: A technique that uses carbon dioxide injected into oil fields to increase oil production, demonstrating a potential economic benefit of CCS.