What are the different methods of artificial carbon sequestration?
The different methods of artificial carbon sequestration include direct air capture (DAC), ocean fertilization, bioenergy with carbon capture and storage (BECCS), enhanced weathering, and afforestation.
Long answer
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Direct Air Capture (DAC): This method involves physically removing CO2 from the ambient air using technology such as chemical sorption or absorption processes. The captured CO2 can then be stored underground in geological formations or utilized for other purposes such as carbon-based products.
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Ocean Fertilization: This method focuses on enhancing the growth of phytoplankton in the oceans, which absorb CO2 from the atmosphere through photosynthesis. Iron fertilization is one approach that involves adding iron to nutrient-depleted ocean areas to stimulate phytoplankton growth. Increased phytoplankton uptake of CO2 leads to its transfer to deep-sea sediments when organisms die and sink.
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Bioenergy with Carbon Capture and Storage (BECCS): BECCS involves converting biomass feedstocks, such as agricultural residues or dedicated energy crops, into bioenergy through combustion or gasification. The resulting emissions are captured and stored underground while sustainable farming practices ensure new vegetation growth that removes CO2 from the atmosphere.
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Enhanced Weathering: This method accelerates natural weathering processes by exposing minerals that react with CO2 over long periods of time. For example, crushed rocks rich in minerals like olivine can be spread across large land areas, increasing the surface area available for reactions with atmospheric CO2.
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Afforestation: Afforestation refers to planting trees on a large scale in order to absorb atmospheric CO2 through photosynthesis and store it in biomass and soils over long periods of time. Forests act as carbon sinks by sequestering substantial amounts of carbon in trees, soil organic matter, forest products, and dead plant material.
Each of these methods has unique advantages and challenges associated with them, and their effectiveness varies depending on different geographical and environmental factors. To effectively mitigate climate change, a combination of various carbon sequestration methods may be necessary. Transitioning to cleaner energy sources and reducing overall greenhouse gas emissions should remain a priority for achieving sustainable carbon sequestration solutions.