Carbon Capture and Storage: A Key to India's Sustainable Future

What is CCS?

CCS stands for Carbon Capture and Storage. It is a process that involves capturing carbon dioxide (CO2) emissions from sources such as power plants and factories, transporting it, and securely storing it deep underground in geological formations.

Why India Needs CCS

• Coal Reliance: India continues to rely heavily on coal for its energy needs, leading to significant CO2 emissions. CCS provides a method for cleaner coal usage during the transition to renewable energy sources.
• Hard-to-Abate Industries: Industries such as cement and steel are challenging to decarbonize. CCS can significantly reduce their carbon footprints.
• Climate Goals: Implementing CCS is crucial for India to achieve its net-zero emissions targets and tackle climate change effectively.

How CCS Works

• Capture: CO2 is separated from other gases produced during industrial processes.
• Transport: The captured CO2 is transported through pipelines to designated storage sites.
• Storage: The CO2 is injected into suitable underground rock formations for long-term storage.

India's CCS Potential

India possesses favorable geological formations for CO2 storage, including depleted oil fields and deep aquifers. However, several challenges must be addressed to harness this potential.

Challenges to Overcome

• Cost: The technology associated with CCS is currently expensive, which can hinder its widespread adoption.
• Policy: There is a need for clear government incentives and regulatory frameworks to promote CCS initiatives.
• Public Awareness: It is essential to educate the public about the safety and necessity of CCS to garner support.

The Future of CCS in India

The upcoming decade is critical for advancing CCS technology at lower costs while establishing supportive policies. If successful, CCS could become a cornerstone of India's clean energy strategy, enabling economic growth while achieving climate objectives.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

Q1. What is Carbon Capture and Storage (CCS)?
Answer: CCS is a technology that captures carbon dioxide emissions from industrial sources, transports it, and stores it underground to prevent it from entering the atmosphere.

Q2. Why is CCS important for India?
Answer: CCS is vital for India as it helps reduce emissions from coal and hard-to-abate industries, contributing to the country's climate goals and transition to renewable energy.

Q3. How does the CCS process work?
Answer: The CCS process involves capturing CO2 from emissions, transporting it via pipelines, and injecting it into underground rock formations for safe, long-term storage.

Q4. What are the challenges of implementing CCS in India?
Answer: Key challenges include high costs, the need for supportive government policies, and enhancing public understanding of CCS technology.

Q5. What is the future outlook for CCS in India?
Answer: The future of CCS in India looks promising, as advances in technology and supportive policies could make CCS a fundamental part of India's clean energy landscape.

UPSC Practice MCQs

Question 1: What does CCS stand for in environmental technology?
A) Carbon Capture and Storage
B) Carbon Credit System
C) Climate Control Solutions
D) Clean Coal Strategy
Correct Answer: A

Question 2: Which sector is a major contributor to CO2 emissions in India?
A) Agriculture
B) Coal Power
C) Tourism
D) Information Technology
Correct Answer: B

Question 3: What is a major challenge in adopting CCS technology?
A) Lack of scientists
B) High costs
C) Public support
D) Abundant resources
Correct Answer: B

Question 4: Which industries are considered hard-to-abate concerning emissions?
A) Textile
B) Cement and Steel
C) Retail
D) Hospitality
Correct Answer: B

Question 5: What is essential for the future success of CCS in India?
A) Increasing coal usage
B) Government policies and public awareness
C) Reducing technology costs
D) All of the above
Correct Answer: B