BECC, also known as Bioenergy with Carbon Capture and Storage, refers to a technology that combines the use of biomass for energy generation and the capture and storage of carbon dioxide emissions. BECC involves the conversion of organic materials, such as agricultural residues, forestry products, and dedicated energy crops, into bioenergy through processes like combustion, gasification, or anaerobic digestion.
The main objective of BECC is to reduce greenhouse gas emissions by capturing the carbon dioxide produced during the bioenergy conversion process and storing it underground, preventing it from being released into the atmosphere. The captured carbon dioxide is usually stored in geological formations such as depleted oil and gas reservoirs or saline aquifers.
By utilizing biomass for energy production, BECC provides a renewable alternative to fossil fuels, contributing to reducing carbon emissions and mitigating climate change. It allows for the sustainable utilization of biomass resources while simultaneously capturing and storing carbon dioxide, which can have a significant impact in the fight against global warming.
BECC is considered a promising technology because it not only reduces carbon dioxide emissions from the energy sector but also offers the potential for negative emissions by actively removing carbon dioxide from the atmosphere. However, the large-scale deployment of BECC technologies faces challenges related to biomass availability, storage capacity, cost-effectiveness, and public acceptance, requiring further research and development.
