CCS Frequently Asked Questions

CO2 (carbon dioxide) is a colorless, odorless, and non-flammable gas. It is an important greenhouse gas that helps trap heat in our atmosphere. An increase in atmospheric CO2 concentration can cause global temperatures to rise and disrupt other aspects of climate.

CCS is a technology that captures carbon dioxide (CO2) emissions produced from the use of fossil fuels and in the chemical reactions of industrial processes. The captured CO2 is then transported and stored permanently underground to prevent it from entering the atmosphere. 

CCS is crucial for mitigating climate change by reducing greenhouse gas emissions. It allows industries to continue using fossil fuels while minimizing their carbon footprint, providing a transition to a low-carbon future.

Carbon capture and storage involves capturing CO2 emissions at their source, such as industrial facilities, using a variety of proven technologies. The captured CO2 is then transported via pipelines and stored permanently underground in geological formations.

The captured CO2 is typically stored in suitable geological formations, including deep saline formations. These subsurface reservoirs provide secure and permanent storage for the captured CO2.

When properly implemented and regulated, CCS is safe. The storage formations are carefully selected and monitored to ensure the secure containment of CO2. Governments and regulatory bodies have strict guidelines and standards to ensure the safety of CCS projects.

Challenges include substantial initial investments, energy requirements for capture processes, the need for suitable storage formations, and public acceptance. Continued technological advancements, supportive policies, and public awareness are essential to overcoming these challenges.

The amount of CO2 that CCS can capture depends on the specific technology, the size of the industrial facility, and the scale of the implementation. Large-scale CCS projects have the potential to capture millions of tons of CO2 annually.

CCS is considered a crucial tool for achieving climate goals, as it allows for the reduction of emissions from industries that are challenging to decarbonize. It complements other clean energy technologies in the transition to a low-carbon economy.