🕒 Last updated on July 3, 2025
What Is Carbon Capture and Why It Matters
Carbon Capture, Utilization, and Storage (CCUS) is a method used to trap carbon dioxide (COâ‚‚) from the air. The aim is to stop it from reaching the atmosphere and warming the planet. CCUS is especially helpful in industries that burn fossil fuels, like steel, cement, and power plants. These industries are hard to clean up with only wind or solar power.
CCUS works in three steps. First, CO₂ is captured from places like factories or power stations. Then, it is transported through special pipelines. Finally, it is stored underground in deep rock layers so it can’t escape.
Supporters believe CCUS can help cut emissions fast. But not everyone agrees. Some think it’s just a trick to keep fossil fuels alive longer. They fear it may delay real climate action. However, experts say that while it isn’t a perfect fix, it can help reduce emissions in the short term.
Why Rules and Laws Are Critical
Building a CCUS project is complex and risky. That’s why strong rules are needed. These rules ensure safety, protect nature, and help make the system work well.
Carbon pricing is one key tool. If companies must pay a tax for polluting, they might choose CCUS instead. In return, governments can give carbon credits. These are rewards for capturing COâ‚‚. Companies can even trade these credits for money. This makes CCUS more attractive to investors.
Clear laws are also needed for storing COâ‚‚. Who owns the COâ‚‚ once it’s buried? Who will take the blame if it leaks after 20 years? Without answers, companies won’t invest. That’s why some governments take long-term responsibility to ease these fears.
Site selection must be strict. Before choosing where to store COâ‚‚, teams must study the ground and check for risks. Only safe places should be approved. Monitoring tools must be installed to track the gas and ensure it stays locked in.
Governments also need reporting rules. Each company should report how much COâ‚‚ it captures and stores. Independent teams must check these numbers to avoid cheating or greenwashing.
How Countries Can Encourage CCUS
Governments can support CCUS through rewards and funding. One method is tax credits. For example, the U.S. offers money for every ton of COâ‚‚ captured and stored. These tax breaks lower the cost for companies.
Public money can also support research. Grants help scientists find better and cheaper ways to capture COâ‚‚. Pilot projects test new ideas on a small scale. If they work, they can grow to full size later.
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Partnerships are another tool. When governments and private companies share risks, more projects get built. Infrastructure laws should also be updated. COâ‚‚ pipelines must follow safety rules, just like oil or gas lines.
Sometimes, carbon must be moved across borders. That requires international agreements. Countries must work together so captured COâ‚‚ can travel to the safest storage sites, even if they are far away.
Safety, Transparency, and Public Trust
Leaks are dangerous. That’s why strong safety rules are essential. CO₂ can harm people, animals, and water if it escapes. So, every project must complete an Environmental Impact Assessment before it begins. These assessments study the risks to the environment and nearby communities.
Plans for emergencies must also be ready. If a leak or accident occurs, everyone must know what to do. A fast response can reduce harm and save lives.
People living near CCUS sites must be included. They have the right to know what’s happening. Project leaders should talk to them and listen to their concerns. This builds trust and helps reduce fear.
Data should also be made public. Everyone should be able to see how well CCUS projects are working. This helps keep companies honest and keeps the public informed.
Recently, Malaysia passed a law to manage CCUS projects. The law aims to make sure carbon capture really helps reduce emissions. It also protects people and nature from possible harm. This step shows that more countries are taking CCUS seriously, even as the debate continues.