Publication date: June 26, 2025
Carbon Capture Technology Faces Scrutiny as Energy Transition Tool

Carbon Capture Technology Faces Scrutiny as Energy Transition Tool

Carbon capture and sequestration is promoted as a way to reduce emissions, but faces criticism over costs and effectiveness.

Climate & Energy

Carbon capture and sequestration (CCS) technology is increasingly seen as a potential tool to reduce greenhouse gas emissions as the world transitions to cleaner energy sources. However, the approach faces growing scrutiny from both conservative and environmental groups over its costs and real-world effectiveness.

Proponents argue that CCS can play an important role in reducing emissions from hard-to-abate industries like cement and steel manufacturing. The process involves capturing carbon dioxide emissions from industrial facilities before they are released into the atmosphere, then transporting and storing the CO2 underground.

However, critics contend that CCS projects have consistently failed to capture as much carbon as promised. Environmental groups argue it simply allows fossil fuel producers to continue operations while making minimal emissions reductions. Conservatives, meanwhile, say the technology is unnecessarily expensive compared to other climate solutions.

Recent studies have raised additional concerns. A 2021 report found that the carbon capture process itself can result in significant methane emissions through leaks. There are also questions about the long-term viability of underground CO2 storage, with some projects experiencing unexpected leaks.

Despite these issues, the CCS industry continues to expand, supported by government incentives in many countries. There were about 45 large-scale CCS facilities operating globally in 2023, capturing around 50 million metric tons of CO2 annually. However, this represents only a tiny fraction of global greenhouse gas emissions.

Looking ahead, the future of CCS remains uncertain. While seen as a potentially valuable emissions reduction tool by some experts, others argue resources would be better spent accelerating the transition to renewable energy sources. As climate pressures intensify, policymakers and energy companies will need to carefully weigh the costs and benefits of further CCS deployment against other decarbonization strategies.