Clean facts about carbon sequestration
Carbon sequestration refers to the act of capturing carbon dioxide, a harmful greenhouse gas, that is emitted into the air and securely storing it in a solid or liquid state. This storage can occur either naturally or through man-made means. Its aim is to combat global warming and assist in mitigating the effects of climate change.
The natural method by which carbon is stored and the balance of CO2 is maintained is through the presence of forests, vegetation, and the oceans. Both land and sea plants take in CO2 and generate sustenance through photosynthesis while also giving off oxygen. As a result, approximately 45 percent of the CO2 in the air is naturally taken out of circulation.
The recent data on carbon dioxide emissions reveals that the amount of heat-trapping gas pollution generated by fossil fuels has increased by approximately 1% compared to the previous year. Experts argue that the current pace at which carbon dioxide is being extracted from the atmosphere is not sufficient and cannot be solely relied upon to achieve vital climate objectives. A study conducted by scientists from Europe and the United States indicates that innovative approaches to CO2 removal presently represent just 0.1% of the total 2 billion metric tons removed from the atmosphere annually.
Nevertheless, the delicate equilibrium in nature has been disarrayed due to extensive clearing of forests, utilization of land, and excessive usage of fossil fuels. Although authorities are now emphasizing the importance of planting trees and attempting to decrease reliance on fossil fuels, they are also exploring the idea of enhancing nature's own carbon capture mechanism through the implementation of artificial carbon sequestration technologies.
One approach that is suggested is utilizing carbon capture and storage (CCS). This technique involves extracting carbon dioxide from industrial emissions, separating it from other gases, and preventing its release into the atmosphere. The captured carbon dioxide is then compressed and transferred to a designated site where it can be securely stored, away from the atmosphere, for an extended period of time.
The trapped carbon dioxide can be placed in deep saline deposits, secure geological structures, depleted oil and gas reservoirs, or the seas. It could also be stored in locations where it can be utilized for industrial purposes.
The Indian authorities are fully committed to advancing carbon sequestration measures. In pursuit of this objective, Mumbai and Bengaluru are now home to two esteemed institutions, known as the National Centres of Excellence in Carbon Capture and Utilisation. These centers have received significant backing from the Department of Science & Technology. India possesses abundant opportunities for geologically storing carbon in various locations, such as basaltic rocks, coal seams, exhausted oil reserves, deep saline aquifers, and sedimentary basins.
