Carbon capture and storage (CCS) refers to a set of techniques and technologies used to mitigate greenhouse gas emissions, particularly carbon dioxide (CO2), by capturing carbon dioxide emitted from various industrial processes and storing it in underground geological formations, subsequently preventing its release into the atmosphere. It involves a three-step process, including capture, transport, and storage.
The first step involves capturing carbon dioxide from industrial sources such as power plants, cement factories, and refineries. This can be achieved through various methods such as chemical absorption, adsorption, or cryogenic separation.
After the capture stage, the second step involves transporting the captured carbon dioxide to a suitable storage site. This can be done through pipelines, ships, or other means of transportation.
Finally, the carbon dioxide is stored underground in deep geological formations, such as saline aquifers and depleted oil and gas fields. The stored carbon dioxide is then permanently trapped and isolated from the atmosphere, thus preventing it from contributing to global warming and climate change.
CCS has the potential to significantly reduce carbon dioxide emissions and mitigate climate change, especially in sectors that rely heavily on fossil fuels. It offers a bridge towards a low-carbon future, as it enables industries to continue operating while reducing their carbon footprint. However, it remains a complex and costly technology that requires further research, development, and investment to become economically viable on a large scale.
