“Discuss the potential of carbon capture and storage (CCS) technology in reducing greenhouse gas emissions. What are the key challenges in its implementation, particularly in developing nations like India?”
Advancements in waste-to-energy (WTE) technologies play a pivotal role in reducing landfill waste and decreasing greenhouse gas emissions. WTE technologies convert municipal solid waste into usable energy, such as electricity, heat, or fuel, through processes like incineration, gasification, and anaRead more
Advancements in waste-to-energy (WTE) technologies play a pivotal role in reducing landfill waste and decreasing greenhouse gas emissions. WTE technologies convert municipal solid waste into usable energy, such as electricity, heat, or fuel, through processes like incineration, gasification, and anaerobic digestion. By diverting waste from landfills, these technologies significantly reduce the volume of waste that would otherwise contribute to land degradation and pollution. In landfills, organic waste decomposes anaerobically, releasing methane—a potent greenhouse gas with a global warming potential much higher than carbon dioxide. WTE technologies mitigate this by capturing the energy potential of waste before it decomposes, thus preventing methane emissions. For instance, incineration reduces waste volume by up to 90% while generating electricity, and advanced gasification converts waste into syngas, which can used for power generation with lower emissions. Furthermore, WTE reduces reliance on fossil fuels by providing a renewable energy source, contributing to a decrease in carbon dioxide emissions from traditional power plants. Modern WTE facilities are designed to operate with high efficiency and strict emission controls, minimizing pollutants. By integrating WTE technologies into waste management systems, cities can achieve more sustainable waste disposal practices, reduce landfill dependency, and contribute to global efforts in combating climate change.
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Carbon capture and storage (CCS) technology holds substantial potential in combating climate change by reducing greenhouse gas emissions from industrial processes and fossil fuel-based power plants. CCS works by capturing CO₂ before it enters the atmosphere, transporting it, and securely storing itRead more
Carbon capture and storage (CCS) technology holds substantial potential in combating climate change by reducing greenhouse gas emissions from industrial processes and fossil fuel-based power plants. CCS works by capturing CO₂ before it enters the atmosphere, transporting it, and securely storing it underground. It can significantly cut emissions from high-emitting industries such as cement, steel, and oil refining, where direct emissions are otherwise difficult to eliminate. In recent years, CCS projects have expanded globally, with countries like the United States, Norway, and Canada investing heavily in such initiatives to meet their carbon-neutrality targets.
However, implementing CCS in developing nations like India poses challenges. High upfront costs for CCS infrastructure, complex regulations, and limited technical expertise are significant obstacles. Additionally, India faces competing priorities, such as poverty alleviation, economic growth, and energy security. Expanding renewables and energy-efficient technologies are often prioritized over CCS due to their lower costs and quicker returns.
Furthermore, a lack of financial incentives, carbon pricing mechanisms, and clear policies hinders the adoption of CCS in India. To make CCS viable, global partnerships, technology transfer, and financial support from developed nations could be essential. For example, international funding could help India pilot CCS in industrial hubs, gradually reducing emissions while balancing developmental needs.
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