The pressing climate change issues have led to the global recognition of Carbon Capture and Storage (CCS). It is a process aimed at reducing the carbon dioxide (CO2) emissions from the industrial processes and burning of fossil fuels which are majorly contributing to global warming. The United Kingdom government has recently reiterated its focus on these projects to capture and store CO2 emissions to achieve net-zero emissions.
What is Carbon Capture and Storage (CCS)?
CCS is a method designed to prevent a significant amount of carbon dioxide from being released into the atmosphere thereby curbing global warming and climate change. It comprises two primary approaches, namely: point-source CCS and direct air capture (DAC). Point-source CCS involves capturing CO2 directly from its production site like industrial smokestacks while DAC focuses on removing CO2 that has already been emitted into the atmosphere.
Mechanisms of Point Source- CCS
The entire process of carbon capture and storage involves several stages. Firstly, CO2 is isolated from other gases generated during industrial processes or power generation. Post the isolation, it is compressed and transported to designated storage sites, often via pipelines. Finally, the CO2 is injected into subterranean rock formations, usually situated at depths of one kilometer or more, where it stored for extended periods.
Possible Applications of Captured Carbon
After being captured, the carbon can be utilized in various ways. Mineralization involves reacting it with certain minerals to form stable carbonates, which can be stored safely underground or used in construction materials. Furthermore, the captured carbon dioxide can also be combined with hydrogen to produce synthetic fuels. Some other applications include supplying to greenhouses and indoor farming facilities to enhance plant growth, and producing dry ice for varied uses.
It is noteworthy that India is establishing two National Centres of Excellence in Carbon Capture and Utilization in Mumbai and Bengaluru to advance these applications.
Challenges in Implementing Carbon Capture and Storage
Despite its potential, CCS involves high initial capital costs for constructing capture, transportation, and storage infrastructure. The cost of capturing CO2 can significantly impact the overall feasibility of CCS projects. Another challenge is identifying and securing suitable geological formations for long-term CO2 storage considering the potential risks of leakage or seismic activity.
Moreover, there have been concerns that the deployment of CCS might unintentionally extend the lifespan of fossil fuel companies, thereby slowing down the transition to more sustainable and cleaner energy sources.
Future Directions
Integrating CCS with natural climate solutions can enhance its effectiveness. These include initiatives like reforestation, afforestation, and sustainable land management that can complement CCS efforts by naturally sequestering carbon, promoting biodiversity, and enhancing ecosystem resilience.
Collaboration and knowledge sharing among countries are also pivotal in addressing global climate challenges. International forums, research partnerships, and technology-sharing initiatives could accelerate the development and adoption of innovative carbon capture solutions.
Balancing CCS and emission reduction for climate action is imperative. While CCS has potential based on the United Nations report, emission prevention still remains paramount. Therefore, an inclusive climate strategy requires both the adoption of carbon capture technology and proactive emission reduction measures.
In line with this, India has committed to reduce the emissions intensity of its GDP by 45% by 2030 as part of its Nationally Determined Contribution.
UPSC Civil Services Examination, Previous Year Questions
Several questions pertaining to CCS have been asked in the past UPSC Civil Service examinations. For instance, a question from the 2012 Prelims paper revolved around agricultural practices helping in carbon sequestration/storage in the soil. In the 2017 Mains paper, a question asked about potential sites for carbon sequestration as part of mitigating global warming. Such questions underline the importance of understanding the concept and practicalities of Carbon Capture and Storage in the context of global climate change.
