Beyond Carbon Capture: The Critical Need to Analyse Decarbonisation Solutions
In recent years, the urgency to address climate change has intensified, bringing decarbonisation to the forefront of global discussions. As a sustainability analyst, I’ve observed a myriad of proposed solutions aiming to reduce greenhouse gas emissions and mitigate the impacts of climate change. However, not all decarbonisation strategies are created equal. It’s imperative that we critically analyse these solutions to ensure they are both effective and sustainable in the long term.
One of the central themes in decarbonisation is the choice between preventing emissions at the source versus capturing them after they’ve been released into the atmosphere. The old saw “prevention is better than cure” rings especially true here. Transitioning to renewable energy sources like wind, solar, and hydroelectric power, coupled with energy storage solutions such as batteries, offers a direct way to reduce emissions. These technologies have seen significant advancements and cost reductions over the past decade, making them increasingly viable on a large scale.
According to the International Energy Agency (IEA), renewable energy sources are expected to account for nearly 95% of the increase in global power capacity through 2026. This shift not only curtails emissions but also fosters energy security and economic growth. For instance, the cost of solar photovoltaic electricity has decreased by more than 85% between 2010 and 2020, making it one of the cheapest sources of electricity in many markets.
In contrast, methods like carbon capture, utilisation, and storage (CCUS) have been touted as solutions to remove CO₂ from the atmosphere. While they hold theoretical appeal, their practical implementation raises concerns. Mechanical carbon capture technologies often require substantial energy inputs and infrastructure, which can negate their environmental benefits. Moreover, the scalability of such technologies is questionable. As highlighted in my recent conversation with climate futurist Michael Barnard, these methods may not be as effective or efficient as they’re often portrayed.
Nature-based solutions, on the other hand, present a promising avenue for carbon removal. Reforestation, afforestation, and the restoration of wetlands and peatlands are not only cost-effective but also offer co-benefits such as biodiversity conservation and improved ecosystem services. The Intergovernmental Panel on Climate Change (IPCC) emphasises that land-based mitigation options could contribute up to one-third of the total mitigation needed by 2030 to keep global warming below 2°C.
However, relying solely on carbon removal, even through nature-based solutions, is insufficient. The sheer volume of CO₂ that needs to be removed—hundreds of billions of tonnes—is staggering. Therefore, our primary focus must remain on reducing emissions at their source. This involves phasing out fossil fuels, enhancing energy efficiency, and embracing sustainable practices across all sectors.
For example, the building industry contributes significantly to global emissions, primarily through the production of cement and steel. Adopting alternative materials like cross-laminated timber (CLT) can substantially reduce emissions. CLT not only stores carbon but also requires less energy to produce compared to traditional building materials. Countries like Norway and Canada are leading the way in constructing high-rise buildings using timber, demonstrating the feasibility of this approach.
Moreover, electrifying transportation through the adoption of electric vehicles (EVs) can drastically cut emissions from one of the largest contributing sectors. According to the IEA, almost 14 million new electric cars were registered globally in 2023, an increase of 35% on the previous year. This trend indicates a growing recognition of the need to decarbonise transport.
In agriculture, practices such as regenerative farming and precision agriculture can reduce emissions while enhancing soil health and productivity. These methods help sequester carbon in the soil and reduce the need for synthetic fertilisers, which are significant sources of greenhouse gases.
In conclusion, while the allure of technological fixes like mechanical carbon capture is strong, we must remain grounded in strategies that offer proven, scalable, and sustainable results. Prioritising emission reductions at the source, embracing renewable energy, and implementing nature-based solutions are critical steps in our decarbonisation journey.
For a more in-depth discussion on this topic and insights from my conversation with Michael Barnard, I invite you to listen to the full episode of the Climate Confident podcast. Together, we delve deeper into the complexities of decarbonisation and explore viable strategies for a sustainable future.
By critically evaluating our decarbonisation strategies, we can make informed decisions that not only address the immediate challenges of climate change but also pave the way for a healthier planet for future generations.
Create your
podcast in
minutes
It is Free