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The Carbon Corner - Issue #36

Published 11 months ago • 4 min read

Welcome to the 36th issue of The Carbon Corner!

In this edition, we're excited to discuss a few new hot spots that have been uncovered as potential carbon sequestration sites!

We hope you enjoy reading!

Unleashing the Potential: Extinct Offshore Volcano Holds Gigatons of Trapped Carbon

In a groundbreaking study, scientists have uncovered a hidden treasure beneath the ocean's surface—an extinct underwater volcano brimming with gigatons of trapped carbon dioxide. This remarkable finding could offer a glimmer of hope in the fight against climate change, presenting a potentially significant carbon sink that could help mitigate rising greenhouse gas emissions.

Named Tamu Massif, this dormant volcano located in the Pacific Ocean is believed to harbor an astonishing 35 gigatons of carbon dioxide. Using advanced seismic data and cutting-edge modeling techniques, researchers were able to estimate the vast carbon storage potential of this underwater giant. It's as if nature has quietly stashed away a massive carbon reserve, waiting to be harnessed.

Tamu Massif's untapped potential as a significant carbon sink represents a valuable opportunity for mitigating the effects of greenhouse gas emissions. However, more research is required to fully comprehend the complex mechanisms of carbon storage within underwater volcanic systems.

Drax Sets its Sights on Houston as Headquarters for Bioenergy Carbon Capture Business

In an exciting move to accelerate its carbon capture and storage efforts, Drax, the UK's largest power station, has chosen Houston, Texas, as the headquarters for its bioenergy carbon capture and storage (BECCS) business. This strategic decision reflects Drax's commitment to combating climate change and fostering sustainable energy solutions.

Houston was selected as the ideal location for Drax's BECCS business headquarters due to its strategic position within the Gulf Coast region. The area offers access to abundant biomass feedstock, a skilled workforce, and a supportive policy environment for renewable energy and carbon capture initiatives.

Through this strategic move, Drax is poised to make a meaningful impact in the fight against global warming, setting an example for other energy companies to follow.

Norwegian Authority Explores Northern Lights CCS Project for Carbon Capture and Storage

Norway's authorities are actively investigating the Northern Lights project, a major carbon capture and storage (CCS) initiative aimed at reducing greenhouse gas emissions. The project, led by Equinor, Shell, and TotalEnergies, seeks to transport captured carbon dioxide from industrial sites to underground storage facilities in the North Sea.

The Northern Lights project has the potential to play a pivotal role in combating climate change by capturing and permanently storing carbon dioxide underground. It offers a viable solution for reducing emissions from industries that are difficult to decarbonize, such as cement and steel production.

Norway's authorities are meticulously evaluating the Northern Lights project, assessing its environmental impact, safety measures, and economic viability. This thorough examination ensures that the initiative aligns with Norway's commitment to sustainable energy practices while fostering collaboration among industry players. By harnessing the potential of carbon capture and storage technologies, Norway is paving the way for a cleaner and more sustainable future.

Rock Flour in Greenland Holds Promise for Significant CO2 Capture, Study Finds

A recent study has revealed that rock flour, a fine powder produced by the grinding of rocks beneath glaciers, has the potential to capture significant amounts of carbon dioxide (CO2) from the atmosphere. Researchers in Greenland have discovered that rock flour can chemically react with CO2, turning it into stable mineral carbonates and effectively storing it for thousands of years.

The study suggests that the widespread presence of rock flour in glacial areas, such as Greenland, could offer a natural mechanism for carbon capture and storage. This discovery presents a hopeful opportunity to utilize the Earth's natural processes to combat climate change by removing CO2 from the atmosphere.

If harnessed effectively, the carbon-capturing capacity of rock flour has the potential to make a substantial contribution to global efforts in mitigating climate change. By understanding and leveraging this natural phenomenon, scientists and policymakers could explore innovative methods to enhance CO2 sequestration and reduce greenhouse gas emissions.

Carbon Capture Takes to the Seas: Promising Advancements in Offshore Solutions

In a significant step towards combating climate change, researchers are making progress in developing offshore carbon capture and storage (CCS) technologies. These innovations involve capturing carbon dioxide emissions from industrial sources and injecting them deep into the ocean for long-term storage, thereby reducing greenhouse gas emissions and mitigating global warming.

Scientists are exploring various methods for offshore carbon capture, including injecting CO2 into saline aquifers and using porous rocks beneath the ocean floor for secure storage. These advancements could provide a practical and scalable approach to reducing carbon emissions, particularly from coastal industrial areas.

Offshore carbon capture offers several advantages, such as potentially avoiding conflicts with land use and enabling the storage of vast amounts of carbon dioxide. However, the environmental impacts and long-term effects of these technologies are still being studied, emphasizing the need for thorough research and regulatory oversight to ensure their safety and sustainability.

Oil Giant Spearheads Advancements in Carbon Capture Technology

A major oil company is taking significant strides in advancing carbon capture technology, marking a notable shift towards a greener future. This pioneering initiative aims to capture and store carbon dioxide emissions from industrial processes, effectively reducing greenhouse gas emissions and contributing to global efforts in mitigating climate change.

The oil company is leveraging its expertise and resources to develop carbon capture technology that could be integrated into existing infrastructure, enabling the efficient capture and storage of CO2 emissions. By repurposing their facilities for carbon capture, they are actively working towards decarbonizing their operations and transitioning towards a more sustainable energy landscape.

The oil giant's commitment to advancing carbon capture technology carries significant implications for climate action. With their extensive industry knowledge and infrastructure, they have the potential to drive transformative change by providing scalable solutions that can be adopted across various sectors, helping to reduce global carbon emissions.

Schaper Energy Consulting is a professional engineering firm offering carbon strategy services to CCS site developers. Check out some examples of our projects here: https://schaperintl.com/carbon-strategies/

If you have questions or comments, please contact us at info@schaperintl.com.

We hope you enjoyed reading this week and hope to see you back next week for more!

Schaper Energy Consulting

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