by Ron Beck, Industry Marketing Director, AspenTech
As the global imperative to reduce greenhouse gas emissions intensifies, the terminology and technologies surrounding carbon capture and removal are rapidly evolving. Industry professionals and policy makers are now navigating a complex landscape filled with terms like direct air capture (DAC), carbon dioxide removal (CDR), carbon capture and storage (CCS), carbon mineralisation, carbon capture and utilisation (CCU) and bioenergy with carbon capture and storage (BECCS). These terms are more than just jargon; they reflect significant advancements in technology and a deeper understanding of various methods to mitigate atmospheric carbon levels.
The language shift in carbon capture technology stems from a need to think differently about these various approaches, from the net zero policy making approach, a funding approach, and regulatory and audit approaches.
Carbon capture (CCS and CCUS) and carbon dioxide removal (CDR) represent two fundamental aspects of addressing the net zero emissions challenge.
Direct air capture (DAC) approach to CDR has attracted very significant investment, resulting in innovation and economic progress, and is now moving towards significant scale. Large scale initiatives include the Occidental (OXY) 1PointFive program, the Carbon Capture Inc Bison program, and the Climeworks Orca and Mammoth projects. The key thing to know about direct air capture is that it is directly removing large amounts of CO2 from the ambient air. At a large enough scale, it can reduce the overall amount of CO2 in the atmosphere, which is why it is called “carbon removal”. It is a net subtraction in the amount of CO2.
Other carbon removal approaches fall under the category of “nature-based approaches”, which are defined as using natural processes (such as planting trees and changing land use and agricultural approaches) to remove more CO2 from the atmosphere. In simple terms, think of this as reversing the deforestation that has been happening in places like Brazil and Indonesia.
“Carbon capture and storage” focuses on capturing carbon emissions at their point source (“Post combustion”) and storing (“Sequestering”) the captured carbon underground. “Carbon capture and utilisation,” on the other hand, encompasses techniques where captured CO2 is repurposed for industrial use, such as in the creation of chemicals, synthetic fuels or building materials such as low carbon concrete. And carbon mineralisation is an approach where carbon is exposed to certain rocks (alkaline rocks, for instance basaltic formations) which will react with the CO2 to permanently form minerals such as carbonates.
The evolution in terminology is partly driven by regulatory bodies and international groups that are setting definitions and standards for carbon management. These regulations influence how companies describe their technologies and processes, impacting their eligibility for funding and compliance with environmental standards. Startups and established companies alike must align their language with these evolving standards to remain relevant and competitive.
But it is also important for investors to understand how to value the different approaches, in terms of their impact on the net zero journey. For instance, the Climeworks DAC projects, which in Iceland have been combined with carbon mineralisation in an approach called “CARBFIX”, are valued at a higher dollar value (in that case quite significantly higher than $100 per ton of CO2 removed). The value derives from the determination that carbon removed directly from air and mineralised, is most likely taken out of the atmosphere for a time period exceeding 600 years.
Taking on board key learning points
As the terminology and technology of carbon capture develop, there is a growing need for education within the industry, in the financial community, and with the public. Misconceptions about the efficacy and purpose of different carbon capture technologies can hinder their adoption and effectiveness. Educational initiatives and clear communication can help demystify these technologies, ensuring that organisations understand their potential and limitations.
For example, there is a common misconception that carbon capture and utilisation (CCU) technologies provide a carte blanche for fossil fuel producers to continue operations under the guise of sustainability. However, CCU and other carbon management strategies are critical components of a broader portfolio of solutions needed to address climate change. They are not standalone fixes but rather part of a comprehensive approach to reduce atmospheric CO2 levels. Hard to abate industries need a basket of solution approaches to achieve decarbonisation.
Key role of tools and technology
Of course, this is not just a language challenge. The technologies for carbon management face fundamental economic challenges that must be attacked via innovation and optimisation. The shift in language is paralleled by advancements in digital tools that help organisations innovate faster, consider a wide range of options technically and economically, and evaluate and implement carbon management strategies. Digital solutions enable data-driven decision-making, allowing companies to assess the costs and benefits of various carbon capture and removal technologies accurately. Agile modeling approaches, assisted by AI, provide agility in screening thousands of innovation options. These tools facilitate the design and deployment of projects, optimising their effectiveness and efficiency. Because of the challenge of scaling rapidly to meet climate goals, completely new approaches to implementation are needed. These born-digital approaches automate the design and construction process. Innovators such as Climeworks in Switzerland, Carbon Capture Inc in California, Carbon Circle in Norway, and Mitsubishi Heavy Industries in Japan, have developed digitally based modular design and implementation approaches.
Once implemented, these “born digital” modular systems, have built in data collection, automation and digital twin technologies, that enable better operation and management; and feedback loops to drive continued innovation towards the next generation designed, driving costs down and economics forward.
One of the challenges facing the carbon capture industry is scepticism about the effectiveness and economic viability of these technologies. Questions about the energy required for carbon capture processes and their long-term benefits are common. Addressing these concerns transparently is crucial for gaining public and industry support.
Digital tools play a critical role in this aspect by providing verifiable and auditable data. Accurate measurement and reporting of the emissions reductions, the carbon removal, and the monitoring in place of the stored carbon, are essential for building trust and demonstrating compliance with regulatory standards. Tools that offer detailed tracking and validation of carbon capture processes can help dispel doubts and showcase the tangible benefits of these technologies.
Positive prospects
The future of carbon reduction hinges on the continuous evolution of both language and technology. As new terms emerge and technologies advance, staying informed and agile becomes paramount for organisations committed to reducing their carbon footprint. Digital tools will remain instrumental in translating this evolving landscape into actionable insights and strategies.
For companies focused on reducing emissions, the goal is to support the industry through this transition by providing robust digital solutions that enhance the understanding and implementation of carbon management technologies and accelerate progress. By fostering education, promoting transparency, and leveraging advanced tools, the industry can move towards a more sustainable and carbon-neutral future.
In this dynamic environment, the ability to adapt to new technology, and digital tools and terminology is not just beneficial; it is essential. Organisations that embrace these changes will be better equipped to navigate the complexities of carbon reduction and contribute meaningfully to global sustainability efforts. As companies refine their strategies and technologies, the integration of innovative solutions will be key to achieving substantial and lasting impacts on global carbon emissions.
