Hiilistämisessä

Hiilistämisessä, often translated as "carbon sequestration" or "carbon capture," refers to the process of capturing carbon dioxide (CO2) from the atmosphere or directly from industrial sources and storing it in a way that prevents its release back into the atmosphere. This is primarily done to mitigate climate change caused by the increasing concentration of greenhouse gases.

There are two main categories of hiilistämisessä: geological and biological. Geological sequestration involves injecting captured CO2 into deep underground rock formations, such as depleted oil and gas reservoirs, saline aquifers, or unmineable coal seams. The CO2 is then trapped by impermeable rock layers, preventing its escape. Biological sequestration, on the other hand, utilizes natural processes. This includes planting trees and restoring forests, as plants absorb CO2 during photosynthesis. Agricultural practices like no-till farming and cover cropping can also enhance carbon storage in soils. Ocean-based methods, such as ocean fertilization or alkalinity enhancement, are also being explored, though they carry potential ecological risks.

The technologies involved in capturing CO2 vary. Point source capture is applied at facilities like power plants and industrial sites, separating CO2 from flue gases. Direct air capture (DAC) technologies aim to remove CO2 directly from the ambient air, offering a way to address legacy emissions. While hiilistämisessä holds promise as a climate change mitigation strategy, challenges remain, including the high cost of capture and storage, the energy required for the processes, and the long-term security and monitoring of storage sites. Public perception and regulatory frameworks also play significant roles in its widespread implementation.