CO2ssa

CO2ssa is a term used to describe an integrated, multidisciplinary approach to mitigating atmospheric CO2 that blends engineering with social science perspectives. The name is employed in academic and policy discussions, with various interpretations of the acronym; it is often explained as reflecting a coupling of carbon dioxide management with system or societal analysis.

The CO2ssa concept emphasizes aligning carbon technology deployment with governance, economics, and public engagement. Technical components may include carbon capture and storage (CCS), direct air capture (DAC), mineralization, and utilization pathways, while social components address policy design, risk communication, stakeholder participation, and the governance structures that oversee long-term stewardship and equity.

In practice, work described under CO2ssa often involves interdisciplinary research programs and pilot projects that evaluate not only technical performance and cost but also social acceptance, regulatory compatibility, and environmental and ethical implications. Proponents argue that a socio-technical framing helps ensure legitimacy and resilience, whereas critics warn of potential moral hazard or neglect of non-technical constraints.

See also topics include carbon capture and storage, direct air capture, carbon utilization, climate governance, and environmental sociology.