What are carbon capture and utilisation technologies? | Explained

Carbon capture and utilization (CCU) technologies are emerging as pivotal solutions in the fight against climate change, aimed at significantly reducing carbon dioxide emissions. These technologies work by capturing CO2 from industrial processes or directly from the atmosphere and repurposing it for various applications, thereby not only mitigating pollution but also contributing to a circular economy. The European Union has emphasized the importance of CCU in its Bioeconomy Strategy and Circular Economy Action Plan, highlighting its potential to foster sustainable development while reducing reliance on fossil fuels. For India, scaling up CCU technologies poses both challenges and opportunities. With a rapidly growing economy and increasing industrial emissions, India can leverage CCU to achieve its climate goals and enhance energy efficiency. This involves investment in research and development, as well as collaboration between government, industry, and academia to innovate and deploy these technologies at a larger scale. As global awareness of climate issues increases, embracing CCU technologies could position India as a leader in sustainable practices and help mitigate the adverse effects of climate change on its population and ecosystems.