As the urgency to address climate change intensifies, companies are exploring various methods to mitigate their carbon emissions. Carbon offsetting has been a popular approach, allowing organizations to compensate for their emissions by investing in reforestation or transitioning to clean energy sources. However, carbon capture, which involves extracting carbon dioxide from the air and storing it underground, has emerged as a potential alternative. In this article, we examine the feasibility of carbon capture as a climate solution and its role in a low carbon future.

One Piece of the Puzzle

While carbon capture has gained attention, it is important to recognize that removing carbon dioxide from the atmosphere alone is not sufficient to prevent dangerous levels of warming or stabilize the planet's climate. Reforestation efforts and the widespread adoption of clean energy sources are necessary to slow down global warming. However, in specific industries such as cement, steel, and chemical production, direct carbon removal could play a significant role alongside other strategies.

Unrealistic Solution

Some governments propose a global carbon market where carbon credits can be traded to meet emission reduction targets. However, environmental experts warn that such a system could allow wealthy nations to continue polluting and rely on carbon capture as an excuse to avoid transitioning to clean energy sources. Carbon capture, in this context, should not serve as a loophole for companies to bypass their environmental responsibilities.

Evolving Technology and Expensive Option

Although there are currently 65 carbon capture projects worldwide, only 19 large-scale facilities are fully operational, with 12 of them located in the United States. The main challenge lies in the cost of carbon capture technology, making it economically unattractive at present. Planting trees and adopting nature-based solutions are more feasible and cost-effective compared to deploying nascent carbon capture technologies.

Carbon Capture and Storage as a Piece of the Puzzle

While carbon capture and storage have potential, it is important to acknowledge that it is not a silver bullet solution to the climate crisis. No single carbon capture project has achieved the agreed-upon amount of carbon capture, and it is not the cheapest or most effective method for fighting climate change. It should be viewed as a complementary measure alongside emissions reduction at the source and the adoption of green energy sources.

UAE's Response to Climate Change

The United Arab Emirates (UAE) is taking significant steps to address climate change and achieve its net-zero emissions target by 2050. The UAE has implemented projects and strategies across key sectors, such as energy, industry, infrastructure, transport, and agriculture, to reduce emissions. Notable initiatives include solar PV plants, nuclear power plants, and waste-to-energy projects that contribute to emissions reduction. Additionally, Dubai's Green Mobility strategy promotes the adoption of eco-friendly electric vehicles to reduce CO2 emissions from the transportation sector.

Conclusion

While carbon capture holds promise as a climate solution, it is essential to approach it with a comprehensive understanding of its limitations and challenges. It should be seen as a complementary measure alongside emissions reduction efforts and the transition to clean energy sources. The UAE's commitment to net-zero emissions demonstrates the importance of adopting a multifaceted approach to address climate change effectively. By combining various strategies, we can strive for a sustainable and low carbon future.

Sources:

• Environment Agency Abu Dhabi (EAD)
• Dubai's Green Mobility Strategy