Some say that we have to focus on not only reducing our emissions, but on capturing carbon dioxide already in the atmosphere or being created by manufacturing and energy processes. This is known as carbon capture and sequestration (CCS; check out the Global CCS Institute for some history). Geological sequestration, where you pump carbon dioxide from e.g. coal plants into the ground, has been on the drawing board for decades, with billions in government and corporate investment. But there are many issues to sort out including cost, technology and effectiveness (i.e. is the gas getting out) that keep this on the sidelines. Carbon dioxide utilization is another strategy, where you capture the carbon dioxide and use it to produce needed fuels and chemicals. This is happening in some places; check out LanzaTech. This is all great progress, but pretty heavy stuff, requiring large investments.
There are also literally hundreds of additional ways to “drawdown” carbon dioxide from the atmosphere and from our activities, products and services. A new book on the subject, entitled “Drawdown: The Most Comprehensive Plan Ever Proposed to Reverse Global Warming” was recently released. It includes technological and ecological solutions for reducing greenhouse gasses, all towards improving global quality of life. It covers things like biochar for carbon sequestration in soil (and soil improvement), microgrids and solar panels, forest protection, transportation, buildings, etc. I can assure you we will be covering many of these topics on TheClimateEconomy.com!
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