Carbon capture and storage (CCS) is an important tool in the fight against climate change. It involves capturing carbon dioxide emissions from industrial processes or power plants and storing them deep underground, preventing them from entering the atmosphere and contributing to global warming. CCS has been identified as a key technology in achieving global emission targets set by the Paris Agreement.
The Need for Global Emission Targets
The Earth’s climate is changing at an alarming rate due to the increasing levels of greenhouse gases such as carbon dioxide in the atmosphere. These gases trap heat radiating from the Earth, leading to a rise in global temperatures, known as global warming. The consequences of this phenomenon are far-reaching and include extreme weather events, rising sea levels, and disruption of ecosystems. To combat these impacts, international efforts have been made to set emission targets that aim to limit the global temperature increase to well below 2 degrees Celsius above pre-industrial levels.
The Role of CCS in Achieving Emission Targets
CCS plays a crucial role in achieving these global emission targets. According to the Intergovernmental Panel on Climate Change (IPCC), it is estimated that CCS could contribute up to 13% of the necessary reduction in carbon dioxide emissions by 2050. This reduction is significant as it can help bridge the gap between current emission levels and those required for meeting global targets.
Benefits of CCS
Aside from its contribution to achieving emission targets, CCS also offers other benefits. It helps to reduce the carbon footprint of industries and power plants by capturing emissions that would otherwise be released into the atmosphere. This technology can also help reduce the cost of decarbonizing these sectors, as it provides a way to continue using fossil fuels while reducing their environmental impact.
CCS can also serve as a backup for intermittent renewable energy sources such as wind and solar power. As these sources are weather-dependent, they cannot provide consistent electricity supply at all times. CCS allows for the capture and storage of excess energy during peak production periods, which can then be used during periods of low production.
Challenges Faced by CCS
Despite its potential benefits, CCS also faces challenges in implementation. One major challenge is the high cost of building and operating these facilities. The technology is still relatively new and requires significant investments, making it difficult for many countries to adopt.
Another challenge is the public perception of CCS. Many view it as a temporary solution that allows industries to continue using fossil fuels instead of transitioning to renewable energy sources completely. There are also concerns about the safety and security of storing large amounts of captured carbon dioxide underground.