Carbon capture technology does exactly as its name suggests: capture carbon. Basically, this type of tech separates CO2 emissions from different industrial and manufacturing processes. It then allows you to store the separated carbon, usually underground, thereby preventing CO2 release into the atmosphere.
Hence, carbon capture tech is pretty useful for the overall well-being of our planet. At present, certain industries must adopt such technology as soon as possible. Let’s check out some of those industries in question.
Power and Energy Sector
Did you know that around 73 percent of global greenhouse gas emissions are attributed to the energy sector? According to Atoco, solid-state carbon capture modules can be utilized to mitigate these emissions from the power and energy sectors.
In 2023, production of over 60 percent of global electricity was done using fossil fuels. This kind of energy generation produces a significant amount of flue gas – a mixture of gasses released during combustion, including CO2. Hence, the amount of CO2 released into the atmosphere due to the burning of such large quantities of fossil fuels is unimaginable.
Based on this, the adoption of carbon capture technology in this industry is imperative. By capturing CO2 from flue gas, power plants can dramatically reduce their carbon footprint.
Oil and Gas
The oil and gas industry is another major emitter of CO2, contributing significantly to climate change. Paradoxically, this industry is also one of the primary sources of the very fossil fuels that drive global warming.
When you burn fossil fuels like oil, coal, and gas, you actually end up contributing to 75 percent of the total global greenhouse emissions. You may also contribute to 90 percent of the total carbon dioxide emissions worldwide.
However, with carbon capture technology, there’s a way for the oil and gas sector to offset its emissions. The carbon capturing will take place at various stages of the extraction and refining processes. That way, the oil and gas industry, through carbon capture tech, can reduce its environmental impact.
Besides, the captured carbon dioxide, which is usually stored underground, can later be injected into oil fields. Such injection of CO2 in oil fields enhances oil recovery, creating a closed-loop system that minimizes emissions.
Cement and Concrete
Cement and concrete production are often overlooked when discussing major CO2 emitters. However, the reality is that these industries are responsible for nearly 8 percent of global CO2 emissions.
If you’re in the cement business, you need to initiate calcination of limestone. This is a process which releases large amounts of CO2. As urbanization accelerates, the demand for cement and concrete will grow, making it crucial for these industries to adopt carbon capture technology.
By capturing and storing CO2 emissions during the production process, the cement and concrete industries can significantly reduce their carbon footprint. You also have researchers exploring the possibility of using captured carbon dioxide to produce stronger concrete, turning a pollutant into a valuable resource.
Steel
The steel industry is another heavyweight in the world of CO2 emissions. It is responsible for approximately 7 percent of global man-made emissions. For producing steel, a process that involves the reduction of iron ore using carbon-based fuels is required. This here is an extensive process that generates substantial amounts of CO2.
We need steel for a lot of reasons, mostly related to construction and manufacturing. By capturing CO2 emissions at various stages of the steelmaking process, the industry can mitigate its impact on the environment.
You can then use the captured carbon dioxide in various other applications including synthetic fuel production. Therefore, when adopting carbon capture solutions in the steel industry, you’re protecting the environment and also venturing into a business opportunity in a way.
A Collective Effort for a Sustainable Future
The need for carbon capture technology is not limited to a single industry; it is a global necessity that spans multiple sectors. From power generation to cement production, each of these industries plays a crucial role in the fight against climate change.
By adopting carbon capture solutions, these industries can significantly reduce their carbon footprints, helping to slow the pace of global warming. However, the adoption of carbon capture technology is not without its challenges. It requires significant investment, innovation, and collaboration across industries and governments.
Yet, the benefits of making the most of such technology far outweigh the costs. The time to act is now. These industries must lead the way in adopting carbon capture technology, setting the stage for a cleaner, greener world.
Founder Dinis Guarda
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