What is carbon capture and storage (CCS)?

Carbon capture and storage (CCS) is fundamentally a technology aimed at reducing greenhouse gas emissions, specifically carbon dioxide (CO2), from major sources such as power plants and industrial facilities. The primary objective of CCS is to capture CO2 before it can enter the atmosphere, thereby mitigating its contribution to climate change.

The process generally involves three main steps: capturing the CO2 produced, transporting it to a suitable storage location, and then securely storing it underground in geological formations. This approach is vital in efforts to decrease atmospheric CO2 levels and achieve climate-related goals, especially as fossil fuels remain a significant energy source worldwide.

By focusing on capturing emissions directly at the source rather than trying to remove CO2 from the atmosphere later, CCS represents a proactive strategy in addressing climate change. This technology is crucial for a range of scenarios, particularly as it can be integrated into existing infrastructure, making it a practical solution for emissions reduction in various industries.