कार्बन कैप्चर: नेट-जीरो उत्सर्जन लक्ष्यों को प्राप्त करने के लिए एक महत्वपूर्ण तकनीक

Carbon capture involves capturing CO2 emissions from sources like power plants and industrial facilities, and then either storing it underground or utilizing it for other purposes. It is important because the IPCC recognizes it as a key technology for achieving net-zero emissions, which is crucial for mitigating climate change.

The different methods of carbon capture include pre-combustion, post-combustion, and oxy-fuel combustion.

While the technology has been around for years, scaling it up remains a challenge. Making carbon capture economically viable and widely deployable requires government support and investment.

Key facts for Prelims include understanding the definition of carbon capture, its role in achieving net-zero emissions, the different methods of carbon capture (pre-combustion, post-combustion, and oxy-fuel combustion), and recent government initiatives like the ₹20,000 crore allocation in the 2026 budget.

The 2026 budget allocated ₹20,000 crore for carbon capture utilization and storage. This funding aims to support research, development, and deployment of carbon capture projects across various sectors.

Pros include mitigating climate change by reducing CO2 emissions and potentially creating new industries. Cons include the high cost of implementation, the energy-intensive nature of some carbon capture methods, and the potential for leakage from storage sites.

If carbon capture is successfully implemented, it can lead to cleaner air and a more sustainable environment. However, the costs associated with carbon capture could potentially be passed on to consumers through higher energy prices.

Carbon capture is in the news due to recent government initiatives, like the ₹20,000 crore allocation in the 2026 budget for carbon capture utilization and storage, signaling a growing commitment to this technology.

Important numbers include the ₹20,000 crore allocated in the 2026 budget for carbon capture utilization and storage, the target of 45% reduction in emissions by 2030, and the goal of achieving 50% cumulative electric power installed capacity from non-fossil fuel sources by 2030.

The concept of carbon capture has its roots in the mid-20th century, with early applications focused on enhanced oil recovery. However, the growing awareness of climate change has shifted the focus towards mitigating greenhouse gas emissions.