Carbon Capture and Storage (CCS): How It Works, History, and Why It Matters for Decarbonization

Carbon capture and storage (CCS) is a set of technologies that prevent carbon dioxide from industrial processes from entering the atmosphere by capturing it and injecting it deep underground into geological formations. The article covers the three main stages: capture using post-combustion, pre-combustion, or oxy-fuel methods; transportation via pipeline, ship, or truck; and permanent storage in depleted oil fields, saline aquifers, or coal seams. It notes that over 40 commercial-scale CCS projects now operate globally, storing about 49 million tons of CO2 annually, though the IEA says 1.2 billion tons per year will be needed by 2050 to meet climate targets. The piece traces CCS from its origins in 1970s enhanced oil recovery to the landmark Sleipner project in Norway, which has stored over 23 million tons since 1996. It also highlights the Moomba CCS project in Australia, which stored 2 million tons in 18 months. The IPCC estimates that without CCS, global decarbonization costs could rise by 138%, especially for sectors like cement and steel that are hard to electrify. The article provides a solid overview for anyone wanting to understand the basics of CCS and its role in climate strategy.