Hiilisidosta

Hiilisidosta, which translates to carbon sequestration in English, is the process by which carbon dioxide (CO2) is captured and stored in a way that prevents its release into the atmosphere. This is a crucial strategy in mitigating climate change, as CO2 is a significant greenhouse gas. There are several methods for achieving carbon sequestration.

Natural carbon sequestration occurs through biological processes. Plants, through photosynthesis, absorb CO2 from the atmosphere and store it in their biomass (leaves, stems, roots) and in the soil. Forests, oceans, and other ecosystems act as natural carbon sinks. The ocean plays a particularly large role, absorbing a substantial amount of atmospheric CO2 through both physical and biological processes.

In addition to natural methods, technological approaches to carbon sequestration are being developed and implemented. These fall under the umbrella of Carbon Capture and Storage (CCS) technologies. CCS involves capturing CO2 emissions from large point sources, such as power plants and industrial facilities, and then transporting it for permanent storage. This storage can take place in various geological formations deep underground, such as depleted oil and gas reservoirs, saline aquifers, or unmineable coal seams.

Another emerging area is Carbon Dioxide Removal (CDR), which aims to remove CO2 that has already been emitted into the atmosphere. This includes methods like Direct Air Capture (DAC), which uses chemical processes to extract CO2 directly from the ambient air, and enhanced weathering, which speeds up the natural process of rock erosion to absorb CO2. The effectiveness, cost, and potential side effects of these various sequestration methods are subjects of ongoing research and debate.