Bioenergy with carbon capture and storage (BECCS) is touted as a solution for carbon emissions, where biomass is used for energy while capturing the emissions produced. However, the arithmetic of carbon neutrality is complicated. Full lifecycle emissions from harvesting and processing biomass, as well as land use changes, complicate the carbon reduction claims. Furthermore, the benefits of adding carbon capture to existing polluting facilities can perpetuate local health risks due to additional pollutants they emit.
Another significant concern is that assumptions about using waste biomass might ignore alternative uses of these materials that could better reduce atmospheric carbon. Companies incentivized to produce more waste could inadvertently lead to increased deforestation. James Temple emphasizes the importance of directly reducing emissions rather than relying on technologies that can complicate the path to climate goals. Thus, while BECCS presents a promising solution, it comes with considerable challenges that necessitate careful evaluation and responsible implementation.
👉 Pročitaj original: MIT Technology Review – AI
