A team of researchers from Ohio University has introduced an innovative method of carbon capture, harnessing geothermal energy as a clean and affordable energy source. This breakthrough represents a significant step forward in the fight against climate change, which is exacerbated by the accumulation of carbon dioxide (CO₂) in the atmosphere resulting from the burning of fossil fuels for heating, electricity and transportation.
About the new carbon sequestration method
The study, published in the journal Environmental Research Letters, proposes an integration of direct air capture carbon dioxide (DACC) technology with geothermal energy. This combination promises to facilitate large-scale CO₂ removal systems, operating efficiently and sustainably by supplying the energy needed to safely extract CO₂ from the atmosphere and store it underground.
The research results indicate that the synergy between DACC technologies and geothermal energy could provide the energy required for large-scale CO₂ capture and storage systems, thus enabling the safe capture and storage of atmospheric CO₂. Martina Leveni, lead author of the study and a postdoctoral fellow in civil, environmental and geodetic engineering at The Ohio State University, stresses the relevance of carbon removal technologies in climate change mitigation, especially because of their potential to capture emissions that are difficult to reduce by other means.
To illustrate the feasibility of their proposal, the research team selected the U.S. Gulf Coast region. for a case study, given its abundance of geothermal resources and favorable geology for safe CO₂ storage. The findings suggest that DACCUS implementation could be successful in this area, taking advantage of sufficient geothermal heat flow to operate the system.
This innovative approach offers new hope for the climate future, highlighting the importance of combining different technologies to more efficiently achieve long-term environmental goals. Although there is still work to be done in terms of technological readiness and development of appropriate policies, the integration of CO₂ capture directly from the air with geothermal energy is emerging as a promising strategy to address climate change.
The role of geothermal energy in the energy transition
Geothermal energy, often underestimated in the debate on renewable energy sources, emerges as a key component in the transition to a sustainable energy future. This geothermal-powered carbon capture method not only stands out for its potential to reduce CO₂ emissions, but also reaffirms the value of geothermal energy as a clean, reliable and consistent energy source.
Integrating geothermal energy into climate change mitigation strategies paves the way for a more diversified and resilient energy matrix, capable of meeting global energy needs while protecting the environment.
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Source: ecoinventos.com
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