Süsinikheites

Süsinikheites, also known as carbon sequestration, is a process that involves capturing and storing atmospheric carbon dioxide (CO2) to reduce its presence in the atmosphere. This is considered a crucial strategy in mitigating climate change. There are two primary methods of carbon sequestration: geological and biological.

Geological sequestration involves injecting CO2 into underground formations, such as depleted oil and gas reservoirs, saline aquifers, or unmineable coal seams. The CO2 is injected in a gaseous or supercritical state and is then trapped by the overlying rock layers, preventing it from re-entering the atmosphere. This method is still under development and faces challenges related to storage capacity, long-term monitoring, and potential leakage.

Biological sequestration utilizes natural processes to absorb CO2 from the atmosphere. This includes enhancing the capacity of forests and other vegetation to store carbon through photosynthesis. Afforestation (planting new forests) and reforestation (restoring existing forests) are key examples. Oceans also play a significant role, absorbing a large portion of atmospheric CO2 through processes like the biological pump, where marine organisms absorb CO2 and transport it to the deep ocean when they die. Soil carbon sequestration, through practices like no-till farming and cover cropping, also aims to increase the amount of carbon stored in the soil.

Both geological and biological methods are being researched and implemented globally as part of efforts to reduce greenhouse gas concentrations and combat global warming. The effectiveness and scalability of each method are subjects of ongoing scientific study and debate.