Carbon Capture and Storage (CCS) technology aims to reduce the carbon dioxide emitted by fossil fuel power plants. CCS works by isolating the carbon dioxide from the emissions stream created when power plants generate electricity. The CO2 is then compressed and injected deep underground, where it is permanently stored. New technology is being developed to help the energy industry use CCS more cost-effectively and better understand the long-term effects of underground storage on the surrounding ecosystems. Preventing a large amount of carbon dioxide from being emitted into the atmosphere is important for the environment, as carbon dioxide contributes to global warming.
In 2020, there are now 51 large-scale CCS facilities globally. This include 19 in operation, four under construction and 28 in various stages of development.