What is carbon capture, utilization and storage (CCUS)? What is the potential role of CCUS in tackling climate Change? (150 Words) upsc mains model answer

What is carbon capture, utilization and storage (CCUS)? What is the potential role of CCUS in tackling climate Change? (150 Words) 

Introduction

Carbon Capture, Utilization and Storage (CCUS) refers to a suite of technologies aimed at capturing carbon dioxide (CO₂) emissions from large point sources (such as power plants, steel, and cement industries) or directly from the air, and either reusing it in industrial processes or storing it in geological formations to prevent its release into the atmosphere.

 

What is CCUS?

1. Capture – CO₂ is separated from flue gases or ambient air using chemical, physical, or biological methods.
2. Utilization – Captured CO₂ is reused in industries like enhanced oil recovery, fertilizers, chemicals, synthetic fuels, or building materials.
3. Storage – Permanent sequestration of CO₂ in deep geological reservoirs such as depleted oil and gas fields, saline aquifers, or mineralization processes.

 

Potential Role of CCUS in Tackling Climate Change

1. Reducing Hard-to-Abate Emissions
• Critical for sectors like steel, cement, and chemicals where direct electrification or renewable substitution is difficult.
2. Complement to Renewable Energy
• Balances emissions during the transition period as fossil fuels remain part of the global energy mix.
3. Carbon Removal (Negative Emissions)
• Direct Air Capture with storage (DACCS) can help offset residual emissions, crucial for achieving Net Zero targets.
4. Supporting Circular Economy
• CO₂ can be transformed into value-added products (methanol, plastics, biofuels), reducing industrial carbon footprint.
5. Climate Commitments
• Helps countries, including India, move towards Paris Agreement and Net Zero 2070 goals.
6. Energy Security and Jobs
• New industries around CCUS (e.g., CO₂-to-fuel, storage hubs) can create employment and reduce import dependency.

 

Conclusion

CCUS is not a silver bullet but an indispensable climate mitigation tool, especially for hard-to-abate sectors. When combined with renewable energy, green hydrogen, and energy efficiency, it can significantly accelerate the global journey towards limiting warming to 1.5–2°C. For India, investing in CCUS alongside clean technologies can balance the twin goals of economic growth and climate responsibility.

 Note: This model Answer for Reference Purpose only