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In recent years, the utilization of biomass through advanced power technologies has intensified to achieve carbon neutrality. An oxy-fuel circulating fluidized bed combustor of biomass with higher efficiency supercritical carbon dioxide cycle has been developed with the aim of compensating the penalties for carbon capture and storage. The combustor fuelled with waste paper, waste wood, and cow manure, at an input of 200 ton/day is economically evaluated. Waste paper is on the verge of becoming an economically feasible fuel, more so than the other biomass examined. The use of waste paper led to a positive net present value, an internal rate of return of 3.8%, a benefit-cost ratio of 1.025, and a payback period of 17.7 years. Subsequent sensitivity analyses conducted for the waste paper fuelled power plant indicated that the capital cost is the most influential factor; the boiler, supercritical carbon dioxide cycle, and oxygen fuel combustion system were indicated in descending order of related subdivided sensitiveness. Both renewable energy certificate and carbon credit has contributed to the feasible economic of the system, with former one took precedence over later one. Sensitivity from the technical perspective, improvement in air separation unit is likely to greatly improve the economic feasibility of the proposed system. The power consumption of the air separation unit, as well as that of the carbon dioxide compression and purification unit, were highly sensitive to the implementation cost. [Display omitted] • Integration of oxygen combustion and supercritical carbon dioxide power cycle. • Economic feasibility study of integrated biomass circulating fluidized bed. • Capital cost demonstrated the foremost sensitivity factor. • Waste paper as potential economically feasible fuel. • Innovation in air separation unit improves economic feasibility. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

CO 2 sequestration has proven to be an attractive way to combat global warming. However, due to the corrosive nature of CO 2 , chemical reactions between CO 2 and the host rock can happen after the injection. This study reviews the current state of knowledge about chemical reactions and their effects on the mineralogy, structure, mechanical, deformation, and transport properties of different types of rocks from research papers published in 2004–2024. In addition to drawing a comprehensive picture of the research that has been done on the subject and the gaps that need to be filled, this review combined the data from the papers to introduce the relationships between exposure conditions (CO 2 pressure, exposure duration, and temperature) and mineralogy, strength, and elastic properties, and permeability of multiple types of rocks. Results showed that some minerals like quartz are not affected by CO 2 while others like carbonates can easily be dissolved. Datapoints from various papers showed a negative effect of CO 2 pressure and exposure duration, and a positive effect of temperature on the strength properties of rocks. An increase in permeability was another consequence of CO 2 treatment in most cases. This study is one of the first works to gather data from multiple sources in developing relationships between CO 2 treatment conditions and the strength properties of rocks. Results will potentially improve understanding and prediction of the effect of CO 2 on the properties and behavior of rocks. [Display omitted] • Quartz, unlike carbonates, is not impacted by CO 2. • Dissolution/precipitation of minerals leads to increase/decrease in pore volume. • The compressive strength mostly decreases with an increase in CO 2 pressure. • Bulk and elastic moduli of rocks decrease after CO 2 treatment. • CO 2 increases the permeability of most rocks. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Negative emission technologies driven by nature with less energy input, lower costs, and long carbon storage capacities are essential for meeting ambitious global carbon mitigation goals. This paper evaluates the carbon sequestration potential of bivalve shellfish farming because its sequestration process is driven by nature, and it is cost-effective and energy efficient. The carbon in shells and the carbon that enters sediments via bio-deposition are long-lived forms of carbon. Using China as a case study, a preliminary estimation suggests that the carbon sequestration efficiency and intensity of cultivated shellfishes are much higher than those of artificial forests. In China, approximately 6.23 Mt CO 2 -eq a−1 was fixed via net carbon sequestration during shellfish growth from 2015 to 2019. In addition, the farmed shellfishes provided 0.37 Mt of harvested protein, and approximately 37.39 Mt CO2-eq a-1 were reduced compared to the same amount of protein provided by beef, and thus, shellfish farming has the win-win benefits of carbon sequestration and high-quality food provision. More importantly, a total of 5.64 Gt CO 2 -eq, accounting for 17.63% of the total emissions in 2020, can be potentially sequestrated at the global scale under the world's largest farming area scenario. • A Negative Emission Technology via shellfish farming was introduced. • Carbon sequestration function and efficiency of shellfish farming were investigated. • Carbon sequestration potential for bivalve shellfish farming was evaluated globally. • Life cycle GHG emissions of shellfish farming in China was assessed. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Abstract Carbon capture and storage (CCS) is now known to be an effective way to reduce greenhouse gas emissions especially CO 2 to the atmosphere. Amino acid salt (AAS) solutions are regarded as promising CO 2 absorbents compared to traditional amine solutions, as they are environmentally being with lower evaporation as well as fewer degradation issues. This paper is intended to review recent developments in CO 2 capture using AASs. The thermodynamics and kinetics of CO 2 and different AASs are illustrated in detail. We will also discuss the blended solutions containing AASs in terms of applications and absorption or regeneration performance. Additionally, we will present specific directions for future research on CO 2 -AAS systems. This paper could provide a guideline for effective carbon capture by new absorbents. Highlights • A comprehensive review of amino acid salts fundamentals is introduced. • Detailed thermodynamics and kinetics between CO 2 and various amino acid salts are discussed. • The developments of CO 2 capture by amino acid salts in the fields of biogas upgrading, natural gas and flue gas purification are illustrated. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Abstract Global warming due to the emission of greenhouse gases, especially carbon dioxide (CO 2), has a significant effect on the climate change and has become a widespread concern in the recent years. Carbon capture, utilization, and sequestration (CCUS) strategy appears to be effective in decreasing the carbon dioxide level in the atmosphere. Despite a great progress in this field, there are still major limitations in commercialized the CO 2 capture methods that rely on absorption phenomena. High capital costs of for the CO 2 capture, low absorption and desorption rates (which require large facilities), solvent losses due to evaporation, and the use of corrosive solvents are among main obstructions. Recently, CO 2 capture with ionic liquids (ILs) has appreciably attracted researchers’ attention. The distinct properties of ILs such as negligible vapor pressure and their affinity to capture the CO 2 molecules make them a feasible alternative for currently available solvents including, different amines. This paper covers a brief review of previous engineering and research works on various CO 2 capture techniques, the description of CO 2 capture process using ILs, mechanisms of the CO 2 capture with ILs at molecular level, CO 2 and ILs properties, characterization of the CO 2 /IL systems, impacts of operating and fluids conditions on CO 2 absorption capacity by ILs, and CO 2 solubility and selectivity in ILs. Moreover, the technical and economic aspects of the CO 2 capture with ILs, screening criteria for ILs/CO 2 systems, and important results obtained from previous studies will form the last parts of this manuscript. This review offers a proper/systematic guideline that assists researchers and engineers to comprehensively understand and to effectively design the CO 2 /ILs processes, focusing on the thermodynamic and mass transfer aspects. Highlights • CO 2 capture with ionic liquids (ILs) appears to be a promising strategy in the future. • This review paper describes carbon capture process using ILs, mechanisms, and challenges. • This paper discusses about different characterization tools for ILs/CO 2 systems. • CO 2 capture efficiency is studied at various conditions through parametric sensitivity analysis. • Technical and economic aspects and screening criteria for ILs/CO 2 systems are highlighted. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Fossil-fired power plants retrofitted with Carbon Capture and Storage (CCS) may have operational benefits for future low carbon power systems. This paper aims to review state of the art literature with the objective to identify whether carbon capture power plants would bring flexibility within future lower carbon power systems. To achieve this objective, at first, the work investigates flexible operation of CCS technology. In particular, flexibility enabling mechanisms and factors that affect the flexible operation of CCS are reviewed. Flexibility requirements and provision assessment tools/metrics for future low carbon power systems are reviewed with the aim to identify the favourite properties required for future low carbon technologies. The work then presents how flexible CCS might improve the conventional power plant flexibility properties. Moreover, the paper presents the value of flexible operation of CCS for different stakeholders while it also identifies different influencing factors of optimal plant operation and profitability. The different power system services that the CCS-equipped plants might serve are also presented. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Low-carbon and environmentally friendly development are becoming increasingly important in the metallurgical industry. In this study, the use of biomass as a source of both material and energy in metallurgical technologies is reviewed. The paper discusses the preparation of bio-based raw materials, their utilization in metallurgical processes, phytoremediation and metal extraction technology, and forestry as a carbon dioxide sequestration method. Bio-based raw materials, such as bio-based fuels, reductants, adhesives, and activated carbons, are found to provide energy, act as reductants and binders, dispose metallurgical flue gas, and adjust metal melt composition, thereby reducing energy consumption in metallurgical processes. Additionally, heavy metals can be enriched in plants through biomass-mediated soil remediation, and these metals can then be processed to obtain raw materials for metallurgical processes. Moreover, metallurgical waste heat can be used to prepare biomass as soil amendments, remediate deserts, and indirectly reduce metallurgical industry carbon dioxide emissions through forest carbon sinks. Based on these findings, the concept of biomass metallurgy is proposed, which promotes the use of biomass as energy or raw materials, ecological restoration and reforestation, and reduction of carbon dioxide and pollutant emissions in metallurgical processes. This study emphasizes the advantages of biomass metallurgy and encourages the development of low-carbon and green metallurgical processes. [Display omitted] • Development of metallurgical technologies using bio-based material and energy. • Bio-based materials including fuels, reductants, adhesives, and activated carbon. • Biomass used in metallurgy for combustion, reductants, pellets making, etc. • Heavy metals in hyperaccumulators extracted and recovered by biochemical methods. • Indirectly reducing CO 2 by transforming metallurgical waste heat into carbon sinks. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

A comprehensive review of the thermal power industry and the accurate forecasting of carbon emissions can provide valuable information to improve energy efficiency and act as a tool for policy makers to realize sustainable and low-carbon emissions from the thermal power industry. In this paper, we study the low-carbon development of China's thermal power industry based on an international comparison from three perspectives: review, analysis and forecast. Initially, we review both the international and national energy consumption of China; although gaps in energy efficiency still exist between China and countries with advanced thermal power technology, China's thermal power industry is gradually following a low-carbon development route. Then, we analyze low-carbon technologies for thermal power units, including ultra-super-critical technology, integrated gasification combined cycle technology, and carbon capture and storage technology and present a design for environmental protection technology for thermal power units. Carbon emissions should be effectively and successfully handled to improve the prospects of China's thermal power industry. Therefore, this paper forecasts carbon emissions by using a hybrid grey model that is optimized by the firefly algorithm and adjusted by weakening buffer operator based on the calculated carbon emissions. If China's carbon emissions from the thermal power industry increase according to the present rate, China will have difficulty in realizing its carbon reduction target by 2020. Finally, related future policies for the 13th Five-Year Plan of China are proposed based on low-carbon policies around the world with regard to financial, technological and industrial aspects to help the thermal power industry achieve healthy and low-carbon development. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Carbon capture, utilization, and storage (CCUS) is a crucial strategy for achieving CO 2 emission reduction targets and mitigating the impacts of global warming and climate change. Among various CCUS technologies, chemical absorption of CO 2 has proven to be a mature and widely-used technique in various industrial sectors. However, the current CO 2 chemical absorption process involves large-scale equipment with low efficiencies, making it difficult to control. To address these issues, microfluidic devices have emerged as a promising technology to intensify the CO 2 absorption process by providing a smaller required volume, enhanced mass transfer, cleaner and safer operations, higher productivity, and more efficient energy use. This paper aims at presenting a comprehensive literature review on research advances of the microfluidic technology for CO 2 chemical absorption. The review covers various aspects, including microchannel geometries, two-phase flow patterns, mass transfer models, effects of operating factors, and measures to intensify the CO 2 absorption process. In addition, the paper discusses the measurement of interfacial and local parameters, such as liquid film thickness, velocity field, and local CO 2 concentration, which are primordial for understanding the transport phenomena and for optimizing the CO 2 absorbers. This paper may serve as an essential reference that contributes to the development and exploitation of highly-efficient microfluidic-based CO 2 chemical absorption technology for future large-scale industrial applications. [Display omitted] • Recent researches on microfluidic-based CO 2 chemical absorption are reviewed. • Absorption performance is determined by the mass transfer between CO 2 and absorbent. • Effects of influencing operational factors are discussed. • Optical techniques are frequently used to measure local & interfacial parameters. • Different techniques used to intensify the CO 2 absorption process are surveyed. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Traditional technologies of carbon capture and storage (CCS) are being focused on capturing CO 2 in large-scale demonstrations, which has been proved to result in the high cost and energy penalty. Meanwhile, typical innovative measures, commonly defined as the second generation CCS technologies, elude conventional ones by integrating with solar energy and thus contributing to a more energy-efficient conversion of CO 2 . However, few reviews pay attention to thermodynamic processes and parameters of these novel technologies, and there is a lack of systematic evaluation and comparison among them. This paper firstly presents a guided tour on the state-of-art of typical and innovative CCS technologies integrated with solar energy. An overview on thermodynamic processes, including chemical reactions, operating conditions and efficiency indexes of five typical technologies is presented so that the current development level can be clarified. Since the high energy requirement and related operating cost are the main barriers to the application of existing CCS technologies, the minimum work and second-law efficiency are applied as the main indicators in the second part of this paper which relates to performance evaluation. In addition, the performance windows for innovative technologies are illustrated for the comparison of technological maturity. The results show that energy requirement of innovative CCS technologies from the flue gas is avg. 100–200 kJ/mol CO 2 and the second-law efficiency of them is only 5–12%. Therefore, the maturity and popularity of these novel technologies are still relatively low. But the well-integrated systems and diversified output of these technologies can benefit existing energy infrastructures in a long period. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The major contributor to global warming is human-generated greenhouse gases (GHGs) emissions that pollute the air. GHGs emissions are a global issue dominated by emission of carbon dioxide (CO 2 ). Notably, CO 2 accounts for an estimated 77% of GHGs and thus has a huge impact on the environment. The capture, sequestration, and utilization of CO 2 emissions from flue gas are now becoming familiar worldwide. These methods are a promising solution to promote sustainability for the benefit of future generations. Previously, many researchers have focused on capturing and storing CO 2 ; however, less effort has been spent on finding ways to utilize flue gas emissions. Moreover, several issues must be overcome in the field of carbon capture and sequestration (CCS) technology, especially regarding the cost, capacity of storage and the durability of the storage reservoir. In addition, this paper addresses new technology in carbon capture and sequestration. To make CCS technology more feasible, this paper suggests a sustainable method combining CCS and biofuel production using CO 2 as a feedstock. This method offers many advantages, such as CO 2 emission mitigation and energy security through the production of renewable energy. Due to the many advantages of biofuels, the conversion of CO 2 into biofuel is a best practice and may provide a solution to pollution while encouraging sustainability practises. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

This paper investigates the causal relationship between economic growth and aggregated carbon dioxide (CO 2 ) emission; as well as economic growth and disaggregated CO 2 emission from burning fossil fuel – coal, oil and natural gas. In addition, the analysis extends the potential impact on economic growth if countries substitute CO 2 emission from dirty energy (coal) by emission from relatively cleaner energy (oil and natural gas). The study carries out a panel analysis of 30 countries during 1960–2010. Panel unit root tests, cointegration techniques and causality tests are used to investigate these relationships using panel VAR in first differences framework. The result indicates that there are ‘feedback’ relationships in all cases except a ‘unidirectional’ causality running from economic growth to coal induced CO 2 emission. Utilizing Wald test with linear restriction the result also finds that countries will be environmentally benefited, if they substitute emission from coal by that of oil and natural gas, that is, if they substitute coal consumption by oil and natural gas consumption. Depending on the findings, the paper suggests some essential policies. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Natural gas hydrate (NGH) is a source of energy that has attracted significant interest for the secure and effective extraction of CH 4 gas from permafrost and marine regions. CH 4 gas can be produced and greenhouse gases (GHG) sequestrated by injecting flue gas into NGH, minimizing environmental threats. This paper provides a complete summary of the advancement of CH 4 recovery from NGH by CO 2 replacement. The CH 4 –CO 2 exchange mechanisms are examined in different types of hydrates concerning their cage structure and formation in geological layers. The gas composition of CO 2 injected with H 2 , N 2 , and air, thermodynamic pressure and temperature, hydrate and water saturations, and concentration of CO 2 are factors influencing the efficiency of the CH 4 –CO 2 exchange. The structural integrity of the sedimentary film throughout the exchange process is evaluated, and the evaluation indicates that the hydrate formed by CO 2 gas is stronger than the layer formed by CH 4 gas and that the mechanical integrity of the reservoirs can be maintained after the exchange process. The replacement effect of CH 4 –CO 2 combined with depressurization, thermal stimulation, and other factors is discussed. Restrictions and further studies of the CH 4 –CO 2 exchange process are also analyzed in light of current findings. This article offers information for future NGH extraction and CO 2 storage applications by providing an overview of recent advances in CH 4 –CO 2 replacement. • Mechanism of CH 4 –CO 2 replacement comprises CH 4 extraction and CO 2 sequestration. • Using different compositions of N 2 and H 2 gases with CO 2 enhances CH 4 –CO 2 exchange. • Combination of thermal stimulation with CO 2 exchange improves CH 4 recovery rate. • Mechanical properties of CH 4 –CO 2 hydrates maintain the mechanical integrity of rock. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Hydration is an alternative promising method for CO 2 capture and separation from either post-combustion flue gas or pre-combustion fuel gas. The present paper gathers the researches on CO 2 hydrate and the hydrates of gas mixtures of CO 2 +N 2 /H 2 /CH 4 , including studies of fundamental thermo-physical properties, molecular structures and hydrate formation equilibrium conditions. Some promoters, i.e. quaternary ammonium salt etc. are usually used in CO 2 hydration process to reduce the hydrate equilibrium pressure and to enhance the hydrate kinetic and stability, hence their promotion effect on CO 2 hydrate and on the hydrates of gas mixture of CO 2 +N 2 /H 2 /CH 4 are reviewed. The paper also summarizes the applications of hydrate technology in CO 2 capture and separation, and the corresponding performance is summarized and the bottlenecks are discussed. It necessitates more works to promote this technology towards industrial application. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Sequestration of CO 2 in depleted oil and gas reservoirs, coal seams and saline aquifers is one important means of mitigating greenhouse effect on the environment and enhancing oil and gas recovery. The collected CO 2 is injected via injection wells into the underground space. Due to the characteristics of supercritical CO 2 , e.g., corrosive, low temperature, the well design and completion for CO 2 injection purposes requires more considerations. This paper introduces the basic challenges of designing a CO 2 injection well, reviews the famous CO 2 injection cases around the world, and proposes well completion criteria, including completion scheme design, materials selection and so on. Well integrity tests in use are reviewed and evaluated in terms of their pros and cons. Well integrity evaluation using numerical simulation is conducted as well to study the influences of CO 2 injection on well integrity in a pilot area in Germany. The results show that the materials selected for CO 2 injection well shall adapt to the low-temperature environment, and the cement should have a high tensile strength and resist corrosion. Under the impact of salt rock creep, the cement cracks resulting from temperature decrease during injection tend to heal. At the end of the paper for the wells with loss of integrity, a remedial work needs to be done, e.g., cement repair, and for this a thorough review of cement repair experiences is performed. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

This paper reviews the utilization of solar thermal energy technology in assisting coal-fired power plants retrofitted with post-combustion carbon capture (PCC). The focus is on compensating the so-called 'energy penalty' imposed on the power plant output by the introduction of PCC plant operations. The integration of solar thermal energy can offset the power plant output reduction due to the PCC installation by totally, or partially providing the energy requirement of the carbon capture plant. The main process integration approaches proposed in this regard are reviewed; their advantages and drawbacks are discussed considering technical and climatic factors. The paper also discusses the merits of this hybridization of power, capture and solar plants as a transition solution for future low-carbon power generation. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

With the deepening of carbon capture research using ammonia solution, CO2 disposal problem after carbon capture has become an important limiting factor affecting the industrial applications of carbon capture technology. It can be seen that CO2 not only controls as a greenhouse gas, but also it is a valuable carbon resource at the same time, CO2 resource recycling has a very good market prospects in near future. Two viable paths for CO2 resource utilization based on carbon capture using ammonia solution are divided in the paper. One path is regenerative resource utilization, i.e., rich liquid regenerates after the decarbonization reaction; the desorbed CO2 is sequestrated under geological layer or reused in other fields. Another path is transformed resource utilization; flue gas decarbonization combines with chemical production, and the ingredients produced from the reaction of ammonia with CO2 are transformed, carbon is fixed into nitrogen fertilizer or other chemical products, such as soda. The existing problems and the economic performance of CO2 resource utilization in power plants were reviewed in the paper. CO2 resource utilization based on carbon capture using ammonia solution is beneficial to the carbon emission reduction in coal-fired power plants; especially transformed resource utilization has economic advantage and good application prospects. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Abstract: This review paper discusses the perspectives for development of carbon capture and storage (CCS) technologies in the global fight against climate change, such as low-carbon technology which is a vital component to reduce future carbon emissions. The information on the level and growth of CO2 emissions, their source and geographic distribution, will be essential to lay the foundation for a global agreement; considering only for energy-related CO2, and not for any other greenhouse gases. We analyzed the distribution of the CO2 emission intensity related to them. Besides, in order to predict possible future situations of energy consumption, CO2 emissions intensity and the CCS role like the largest emission reduction potential, the International Energy Agency (IEA) has developed a number of scenarios; the baseline scenarios and comparative scenarios. We used the approach of the Blue Map Scenarios, bringing the 2005s emissions to a level of 50% by 2050 for a non-catastrophic human intervention in the climate system. Moreover, this paper shows the barriers, strategies for accelerating and the stages in the technology deployment. We also analyzed the CCS projects status; Challenges, SWOT analysis, and the currently Global CCS Technology Activity. For this, we consider the Large Scale Integrated Projects (LSIP), and the asset life-cycle model was used to categorize the status of a project according to its development stage. Alongside, the analysis involves: Total LSIPs by geographic region, by Industry and CO2 Capture Technology. In addition, we also made a scope on some of the most relevant international actions in order to stimulate the fulfillment of the CO2 intensity target. [Copyright &y& Elsevier]

Abstract: Over the last decades, fighting global warming has become the most important challenge humanity has to face. Therefore technologies of carbon dioxide capture, sequestration and recycling are equally important in order to tackle the global climate change stakes. Among recycling technologies, photocatalytic processes reducing CO2 with H2O back to fuels or to other useful organic compounds, have the potential to be part of a renewable energy system. Indeed these processes can help to control CO2 emissions and eventually eliminate CO2 in excess. This perspective paper describes a large size device, able simultaneously: • to proceed to direct air capture (DAC) of CO2; • to transform part of it into useful chemicals, like hydrocarbons or syngas; • and to produce renewable energy, thus preventing future CO2 emissions. Synergies between solar chimney power plants (SCPPs) and semiconductor photocatalysis in order to create giant photocatalytic reactors for artificial photosynthesis are discussed, as well as scale economies for unconventional carbon capture directly from the atmosphere. This paper presents a carbon negative emission technology obtained by coupling SCPPs with DAC systems which allows many scale economies, and also synergies to proceed to solar-to-chemical energy-conversion process by photocatalytic reduction of atmospheric CO2 under sunlight. [Copyright &y& Elsevier]

Abstract: Global climate change is a change in the long-term weather patterns that characterize the regions of the world. Scientists state unequivocally that the earth is warming. Natural climate variability alone cannot explain this trend. Human activities, especially the burning of coal and oil, have warmed the earth by dramatically increasing the concentrations of heat-trapping gases in the atmosphere. The more of these gases humans put into the atmosphere, the more the earth will warm in the decades and centuries ahead. The impacts of warming can already be observed in many places, from rising sea levels to melting snow and ice to changing weather patterns. Climate change is already affecting ecosystems, freshwater supplies, and human health. Although climate change cannot be avoided entirely, the most severe impacts of climate change can be avoided by substantially reducing the amount of heat-trapping gases released into the atmosphere. However, the time available for beginning serious action to avoid severe global consequences is growing short. This paper reviews assessing of such climate change impacts on various components of the ecosystem such as air, water, plants, animals and human beings, with special emphasis on economy. The most daunting problem of global warming is also discussed. This paper, further reviews the mitigation measures, with a special focus on carbon sequestration and clean development mechanism (CDM). The importance of synergy between climate change mitigation and adaptation has been discussed. An overview of the relationship between economy and emissions, including Carbon Tax and Emission Trading and the policies are also presented. [Copyright &y& Elsevier]

Abstract: Environmental and societal problems related to energy use have spurred the development of sustainable energy technologies, such as wind mills, carbon capture and storage, and hydrogen vehicles. Public acceptance of these technologies is crucial for their successful introduction into society. Although various studies have investigated technology acceptance, most technology acceptance studies focused on a limited set of factors that can influence public acceptance, and were not based on a comprehensive framework including key factors influencing technology acceptance. This paper puts forward a comprehensive framework of energy technology acceptance, based on a review of psychological theories and on empirical technology acceptance studies. The framework aims to explain the intention to act in favor or against new sustainable energy technologies, which is assumed to be influenced by attitude, social norms, perceived behavioral control, and personal norm. In the framework, attitude is influenced by the perceived costs, risks and benefits, positive and negative feelings in response to the technology, trust, procedural fairness and distributive fairness. Personal norm is influenced by perceived costs, risks and benefits, outcome efficacy and awareness of adverse consequences of not accepting the new technology. The paper concludes with discussing the applicability of the framework. [Copyright &y& Elsevier]

Abstract Biochar-based carbon management networks (CMNs) offer a means of achieving negative net greenhouse gas (GHG) emissions. Such systems rely on relatively mature technologies for biochar production, distribution and application by tillage; thus, the prospects for near-term scale-up, especially in developing countries with agriculture-intensive economies, are promising. The main technological gap lies in the capability to predict, optimize and monitor the actual climate change mitigation benefits. Computer-aided planning of biochar-based CMNs will be needed to maximize GHG reductions while minimizing any potential adverse environmental impacts. Such models can help decision-makers to understand and optimize the cost/benefit aspects of such systems to accelerate their commercial deployment. This paper gives a brief review of the available scientific literature, and discusses prospective areas for further research to facilitate the large-scale use of biochar as a negative emissions technology (NET). Highlights • Biochar application to soil is a potentially scalable negative emissions technology. • Biochar-based carbon management networks can be operated based on this concept. • Computer-aided planning, optimization and monitoring are required. • An integrated modelling framework should be developed for effective decision support. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Eleven years on since the United Nations' Intergovernmental Panel on Climate Change was awarded the Nobel Peace Prize in recognition of its efforts in combating climate change, fossil fuels remain the most dominant global energy source. As the total replacement of fossil fuel energy is not expected to take place immediately in the near future, the International Energy Agency has repeatedly declared carbon capture and sequestration (CCS) as a key technology for mitigating climate change. However, CCS lacks the scale required for substantial reduction in carbon dioxide emissions from fossil fuel power generation. Even though CCS is one of the key technologies for mitigating climate change, why has this technology not had an international breakthrough? To shed light on this question, this paper employs a simple model of energy generation, scrutinizes the economic drivers of CCS based on the analytical results, and discusses the possible obstacles that can prevent a widespread rollout of the technology. This is followed by a state-of-the-art in literature pertaining to the economics of CCS, and a discussion that points to a dichotomy between the economic theory and reality. The study concludes with some policy suggestions and directions for future research. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

This paper provides a review of negative carbon capture technologies. Based on these technologies, here it is proposed an innovative negative emissions power plant combining the generation and storage of energy from biomass, photovoltaic, and concentrated solar power, capturing and recovering CO 2 by producing H 2 or CH 4 as green energy carriers. The main features of the system are i) large-scale energy production system with negative CO 2 emissions; ii) 100% renewable system based on biomass and solar energy with the possibility of integrating other renewables; iii) synergistic integration of processes and systems; iv) recovery of O 2 generated by photovoltaic-driven electrolysis within the process of partial biomass oxycombustion and v) solar-driven limestone calcination. A detailed model of the entire plant is developed to evaluate the integration of the process. The model performance is assessed on an hourly basis throughout the whole year. The base case results show an energy consumption from 1 to 2.1 MJ/kg CO 2 to capture 60–77% of CO 2 emitted from the biomass plant and green methane production of more than 7500 tons/year. The negative emissions associated with the process are -612 kg CO 2 /MWh. It justifies the interest in the proposed negative emissions power plant. [Display omitted] • A synergetic integration of CO2 capture, energy storage and methane production is proposed. • A biomass power plant is considered, resulting in -612 kg CO2/MWh negative emissions. • Solar PV and CSP are integrated into the process to reduce the SPECCA to 1–2.1 kg CO2/MWh. • A large amount of solids storage is required to achieve 70–90% CO2 capture capacity. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Meeting the Paris Agreement will most likely require the combination of CO 2 capture and biomass in the industrial sector, resulting in net negative emissions. CO 2 capture within the industry has been extensively investigated. However, biomass options have been poorly explored, with literature alluding to technical and economic barriers. In addition, a lack of consistency among studies makes comparing the performance of CO 2 capture and/or biomass use between studies and sectors difficult. These inconsistencies include differences in methodology, system boundaries, level of integration, costs, greenhouse gas intensity of feedstock and energy carriers, and capital cost estimations. Therefore, an integrated evaluation of the techno-economic performance regarding CO 2 capture and biomass use was performed for five energy-intensive industrial sub-sectors. Harmonization results indicate that CO 2 mitigation potentials vary for each sub-sector, resulting in reductions of 1.4–2.7 t CO 2 /t steel (77%–149%), 0.7 t CO 2 /t cement (92%), 0.2 t CO 2 /t crude oil (68%), 1.9 t CO 2 /t pulp (1663%–2548%), and 34.9 t CO 2 /t H 2 (313%). Negative emissions can be reached in the steel, paper and H 2 sectors. Novel bio-based production routes might enable net negative emissions in the cement and (petro)chemical sectors as well. All the above-mentioned potentials can be reached for 100 €/t CO 2 or less. Implementing mitigation options could reduce industrial CO 2 emissions by 10 Gt CO 2 /y by 2050, easily meeting the targets of the 2 °C scenario by the International Energy Agency (1.8 Gt CO 2 /y reduction) for the industrial sector and even the Beyond 2 °C scenario (4.2 Gt CO 2 /y reduction). • Literature review on CO 2 mitigation in steel, cement, chemical, H 2 and paper sectors. • Introduction harmonized methodology to allow comparison between industrial sectors. • All investigated sectors have large reduction potentials for <100 €/t CO 2 avoided. • Negative emissions possible in iron/steel, H 2 and paper sectors. • Potential CO 2 emission reduction of 10 Gt/yr in 2050, easily meeting climate target. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Global steel production is currently dependent on coal and capital-intensive production facilities with long economic lifetimes. While the Paris Agreement means carbon neutrality must be reached globally by 2050–2070, with negative emissions thereafter, coal-based steel production today accounts for around 8% of global energy-related CO 2 emissions. Its production may stabilize or even decline in industrialized countries, but it will increase significantly in the emerging economies. In the past, the focus of CO 2 reduction for steel has been on moderate emissions reductions through energy efficiency measures and on exploring carbon capture and storage. However, as (1) the cost of renewable electricity is declining rapidly, (2) carbon capture and storage has not materialized yet, and (3) and more and more countries set deep emission reduction targets, electricity- and hydrogen-based steelmaking has gathered substantial momentum over the past half-decade. Given the short time frame and the sector's deep carbon lock-in, there is an urgent need to understand the national climate and energy policy as well as the current implementation of low-CO 2 and renewable electricity that would enable a shift from coal-based to electricity-based steelmaking. In this paper, we first identify the countries that are likely to be major steel producers in the future and thus major CO 2 -emitters. Then we map medium- and long-term CO 2 reduction and renewable targets as well as the current share of low-CO 2 and renewable electricity by country. Based on these data, we develop a set of indicators that map the readiness of steel-producing countries for a sustainable transition. Our findings show that although binding long-term CO 2 reduction targets are being implemented, medium-term CO 2 reduction do not yet affect coal based steel production. Overall, the global steel industry seems not be on track yet, though differences between steel producing countries are large. Common shortcomings across countries are a lack of access to renewable electricity and a lack of demanding medium-term CO 2 reduction targets. The paper ends with recommendations on how to enable a low-carbon transition of the global steel industry in line with the Paris Agreement. • Four major steel producing countries have committed to carbon neutrality by mid-century. • 2030 CO 2 reduction targets do not affect coal-based steelmaking. • Access to renewable electricity is limited in most countries. • One third of the steelmaking countries strongly rely on coal for their economy. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The integrated gasification combined cycle (IGCC) process is an energy conversion system for concurrent power and chemical production. The key capability of this technology is the synthesis of versatile chemical products from various carbonaceous feed material, such as coal, biomass, and by-products from the petroleum refining process. This flexibility places the IGCC as a viable alternative for conventional Rankine cycles which suffer from inflexibility in response to the volatile electricity market. To date, there are few commercial examples of this technology predominantly due to the high capital cost requirement and operation complexity. However, the economic feasibility of the IGCC could be significantly improved with carbon capture obligations. This is due to its lower carbon capture costs as a result of treating high-pressure and high-concentrated CO 2 stream, unlike conventional power generation systems. This paper provides a comprehensive review of polygeneration IGCC process with multiple-feed and multiple-product flexibility. Then process fundamentals are critically reviewed and technological barriers are discussed. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Carbon Capture, Utilization and Storage (CCUS) is considered a critical carbon dioxide reduction technology for climate change mitigation. More recently, it has been attracting significant attention from the Chinese government, industry and academia in relation to its research, development and deployment. This paper screens 1,202 unique scientific articles from Web of Science related to China's CCUS and employs Citespace to conduct a knowledge mapping of the domain. The results show that the number of publications have increased and CCUS has become a multidisciplinary area of study. The paper visually demonstrates the most productive institutions, main authors, and primary sources of China's CCUS research domain. Moreover, the paper explains how the research topics have changed over time and discovers the current research frontiers including "pipeline", "shale gas" and "steel". Of significant interest is the finding that China's CCUS research progress appears to be directly related to the increasing policy support through China's five-year planning process. However, research regarding public perception, financial mechanisms and appropriate business models for CCUS deployment is found to be less prevalent. Recommendations to improve research in these areas are provided from the perspective of government intervention. This paper also highlights the importance of continued government support for CCUS as part of the national development strategy for carbon emissions reduction and transitioning towards a low carbon future. • The evolution of China's CCUS research is identified using a bibliometric method. • Outlines research foci, most productive organizations, main authors and top-tier journals. • Government intervention appears the most significant driver for CCUS development in China. • Three research areas−"pipeline", "shale gas" and "steel"− are receiving strongest policy support. • The topics "public perception", "financial mechanisms", and "business models"− lack sufficient focus in China. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Global warming due to greenhouse gases mostly carbon dioxide has become a serious concern worldwide. Carbon capture using adsorption, absorption, chemical looping combustion, cryogenic and membrane separations has been widely studied to tackle this problem. Significant research efforts have been made in membrane based carbon capture employable in both pre- and post-combustion options as it is a simple, efficient economical and environmentally benign option. In this paper, a comprehensive review has been done on this technology with reference to various aspects viz., synthesis, characterization and performance analysis of various membrane materials, contactors and their design aspects, modeling and simulation studies and membrane wetting phenomenon. The prospects and future challenges of the membrane based carbon capture are also highlighted. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Biochar amendment has been proposed as a promising solution to mitigate greenhouse gas (GHG) emissions from agriculture and sustainably enhance crop yield. However, the net GHG mitigation potential of biochar remains uncertain, especially the controversial results from field and laboratory experiments. Using 9970 published observational data derived from 592 peer-reviewed papers, this study highlighted the effects of biochar in field experiments on crop yield, soil organic carbon (SOC) stocks, carbon dioxide (CO 2) and methane (CH 4) fluxes, and soil nitrogen (N) dynamics (i.e., soil inorganic N stocks, nitrous oxide [N 2 O] emissions, ammonia [NH 3 ] volatilization, and inorganic N leaching). Overall, field data indicated that biochar significantly increased gross SOC stocks (26.6%) and crop yield (15.7%), reduced soil CH 4 (−14.8%) and N 2 O (−23.1%) emissions, and ammonium (−24.9%) and total inorganic N leaching (−23.2%) but had no effect on soil CO 2 emissions. Whereas laboratory data generally showed greater effect sizes of biochar on these indictors. Global warming potential was decreased only in field experiments, but both experiments showed similar reductions in GHG intensity. Both experiments suggested that soil and biochar cation exchange capacity, pH, biochar application rate, and nitrogen fertilization interactively regulated biochar effects on crop yield and GHG emissions. The unrealistically high rates of biochar in laboratory experiments may overestimate its benefit on soil C sequestration and/or underestimate its mitigation potential. These findings provide a comprehensive view that biochar amendment may serve as a viable climate-smart agricultural practice that can help in partial achievement of multiple sustainable development goals. • Biochar is an effective strategy for climate-smart agriculture. • Biochar added to field (∼20 Mg ha−1) can increase gross SOC stock by ∼27%. • Biochar can decrease global warming potential and greenhouse gas intensity. • Unrealistically high biochar rates in lab overestimated soil carbon sequestration. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The carbonation technology, which is promising in carbon capture and storage, is an emerging soil treatment method adopted in geotechnical engineering and geo-environmental engineering to enhance mechanical properties or mitigate environmental risks. The advantage of utilising CO 2 in solving engineering problems shows a large potential for the technology to be widely used to alleviate the greenhouse emission problems; Nevertheless, the changes in soil characteristics, including physical, chemical, mechanical, deformation, and durability characteristics, caused by carbonation are complicated, which brings challenges to possible engineering applications. This paper reviews the recent development of carbonation technology in geotechnical engineering and provides a systematic analysis of the effect of carbonation on soil properties, from the macro behaviours to the micro mechanism. The "double-edged sword" effect of carbonation on the mechanical properties of soils is proposed, together with the micro-scale mechanisms illustrated. A qualitative theoretical model for the prediction of the mechanical strength of carbonated soils is established. The prospective future and important insights of the carbonation technology to be utilized in geotechnical engineering can be concluded from the review, although some potential technical issues, including possible carbonation crack, heavy metal leaching, durability issues, and lack of construction techniques, require further study. [Display omitted] • Natural and artificial carbonation process in soils. • Carbonation technology for ground improvement and contaminated soil treatment. • Physical, chemical, and mechanical characteristics of carbonated soils. • Microscopic structures and chemical reactions of the carbonation process. • Positive and negative influences of carbonation on soil properties. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Commonly, carbon dioxide (CO 2 ) capture and resource utilization (CCRU) covers a broad area of research with different technical challenges. Thus, more exploratory technological investigations are needed to discover new applications and reactions. In this paper, an innovative method for CO 2 absorption by sodium borohydride (NaBH 4 ) from coal-fired flue gas was developed under atmospheric pressure and moderate temperature. The effects of influencing factors, such as volume ratio of ethanol to water, NaBH 4 concentration, reaction temperature, solution pH, and concentrations of sulfur dioxide, nitric oxide and oxygen on CO 2 absorption were investigated. The average absorption efficiency of CO 2 was 54.06% under optimal experimental conditions, in which volume ratio of ethanol to water was 80%, NaBH 4 concentration was 0.439 mol L −1 , reaction temperature was 318 K and solution pH was 9.0. The coexisting gases of sulfur dioxide, nitric oxide and oxygen in flue gas had no significant competition or inhibition effect on CO 2 absorption. Ion Chromatography and Fourier Transform Infrared Spectroscopy analyses of products proved that the main reaction product was formate with 41.52% of the selectivity. Combined with the analysis of the electrode potentials, the mechanism of CO 2 reaction with NaBH 4 was proposed. Meanwhile, a comparative research of CO 2 resource utilization can provide a useful reference for developing new CCRU technologies. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The selection of the social discount rate and the consideration of hurdle rates in energy systems optimisation models affect the creation of sound and comprehensive scenarios useful for energy modellers. Due to the lack of studies about the use of different discounting options in energy optimisation models, the goal of this paper is to fill that gap by establishing the foundations for a debate among energy modellers, policy-makers and stakeholders in this regard. So firstly, we introduced the concept of discount rates both social and technology-specific including a thorough literature review concerning figures, scopes and approaches. Secondly, two models, ETSAP-TIAM and TIMES-Norway, were used to assess the behaviour of the energy systems at different regionalisation levels, Europe and Norway respectively. Thirdly, we analysed the evolution of the electricity production mixes and system costs for both models and considering several values for the discount rates. Finally, results showed that the energy system is strongly affected by changes in the social discount rate. The lower the social discount rate is, the higher the renewable contribution. The social discounting exerts influence on capital intensive investments so it is quite important to look at the energy carriers pathways (fossil-renewable transition). This is what happens in the case of ETSAP-TIAM for Europe. Reversely, in the case of TIMES-Norway, as the electricity system is almost 100% renewable, it is important to take into account the hurdle rates of the technologies to enrich the competition by including their particular risks and barriers. In summary, we recommend using a value not higher than 4–5% for the social discount rate for the European countries as well as to include an exhaustive portfolio of hurdle rates for all the technologies included in the energy optimisation model. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

World climate change occurring mainly due to human activities has led to an environmental concern all over the planet. Global CO 2 emission has reached an alarming level which is regarded as the most lethal anthropogenic greenhouse gas emissions. To have a check on the carbon emissions, many clean coal technologies were proposed out of which Chemical Looping Combustion (CLC) technology came out as the most promising technology of all. The process of CLC avoids direct contact between the fuel and the air. It is based on the transfer of oxygen from air to fuel by means of a metal based oxygen carrier and this process is blessed with inherent sequestration of CO 2 . This paper presents a review of the CLC technology and it׳s all round advancement during last 10-15 years. The all round development of the process include progress in terms of the use of gaseous, solid as well as liquid fuels, the evolution in the oxygen carriers and the reactor systems being used in the process. The development in the oxygen carriers has gained maturity, the use of solid fuels is gaining momentum, and the liquid fuels need further attention for its development. Recently, a fair number of hours of continuous operation in pilot plants have instilled the confidence required in further development of this process towards commercialization. The big stride that the CLC technology has taken in such a small duration of time, there leaves no doubt that this technology has the potential to grow manifolds with further research. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

As a mature technology in carbon capture process, amine scrubbing technology has many advantages such as fast absorption rate, high carbon dioxide (CO 2) selectivity, high CO 2 absorption, excellent absorption effect and regeneration, but it also has many problems such as high energy consumption for regeneration, corrosion of carbon steel, easy degradation, carcinogenic and some environmental risks that limit its commercial use. Therefore, it is important to screen the amines in the absorption process of different gas mixtures by amine washing technology in specific environments. In this paper, we systematically review the current development of amine scrubbing technology for carbon capture in terms of amine structure, reaction mechanism, operation procedure, problems and its application status. The structures and reaction mechanisms of different types of amines are explained and classified in detail to provide guidance for the subsequent screening of monoamine and mixed amines technologies. In addition, the possible problems in the process of gas absorption and its application scenarios are explained and the corresponding research ideas and suggestions are presented. Finally, we also propose specific directions for future research on amine scrubbing technology to provide guidance for the continued promotion of processes that can effectively perform carbon capture. [Display omitted] • Amine has great advantages in CO 2 capture effect and treatment capacity. • The regeneration energy and degradation of amine need to be further studied. • The potential environmental risk of amine degradation needs more attention. • Lack of systematization of the optimal process parameters of mixed amines. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The costs of intermittent renewable energy systems (IRES) and power storage technologies are compared on a level playing field to those of natural gas combined cycle power plants with CO 2 capture and storage (NGCC–CCS). To account for technological progress over time, an “experience curve” approach is used to project future levelised costs of electricity (LCOE) based on technology progress ratios and deployment rates in worldwide energy scenarios, together with European energy and technology cost estimates. Under base case assumptions, the LCOE in 2040 for baseload NGCC–CCS plants is estimated to be 71 € 2012 /MWh. In contrast, the LCOE for electricity generated intermittently from IRES is estimated at 68, 82, and 104 € 2012 /MWh for concentrated solar power, offshore wind, and photovoltaic systems, respectively. Considering uncertainties in costs, deployment rates and geographical conditions, LCOE ranges for IRES are wider than for NGCC–CCS. We also assess energy storage technologies versus NGCC–CCS as backup options for IRES. Here, for base case assumptions NGCC–CCS with an LCOE of 90 € 2012 /MWh in 2040 is more costly than pumped hydro storage (PHS) or compressed air and energy storage (CAES) with LCOEs of 57 and 88 € 2012 /MWh, respectively. Projected costs for battery backup are 78, 149, and 321 € 2012 /MWh for Zn–Br, ZEBRA, and Li-ion battery systems, respectively. Finally, we compare four stylised low-carbon systems on a common basis (including all ancillary costs for IRES). In the 2040 base case, the system employing only NGCC–CCS has the lowest LCOE and lowest cost of CO 2 avoided with CO 2 emissions of 45 kg/MWh. A zero CO 2 emission system with IRES plus PHS as backup is 42% more expensive in terms of LCOE, and 13% more costly than a system with IRES plus NGCC–CCS backup with emissions of 23 kg CO 2 /MWh. Sensitivity results and study limitations are fully discussed within the paper. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Alarming carbon dioxide emissions and its detrimental environmental impacts (e.g. climate change and global warming) are the major consequences of the undue reliance of the modern civilization on fossil fuels. Long-term solutions to address these issues are based on developing sustainable alternatives for the human energy thirst. However, the versatilities offered by the carbonaceous fuels have still preserved their popularity as the main source of energy for a wide variety of applications. After decades of practicing conventional carbon capture and storage, researchers believe the ultimate solution of realistically facing with CO 2 sequestration problem is the chemical conversion of carbon dioxide to valuable products. However, substantial development of state-of-the-art materials remains the major bottleneck of such technologies. Graphene, as the rising star of the materials world in 21st century, offers game-changing prospects towards a more sustainable future for fossil-fuel-based economies. This two-dimensional planar sheet of sp 2 -bonded carbon atoms is the most widely studied nanomaterial since its discovery in 2004. Here we aim to highlight various aspects of graphene research in carbon dioxide capture and conversion from materials viewpoint. After presenting an overview of the most common and effective synthesis and doping/functionalization methods, the application of graphene and its derivatives in CO 2 capture and conversion is discussed in detail. Catalytic, electrocatalytic and photoelectrocatalytic use of graphene-based compounds could potentially revolutionize some of the current techniques for CO 2 transformation to valuable chemical commodities. CO 2 to graphene conversion pathways are also covered extensively in this review paper as another intriguing relation of graphene with CO 2 . [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Currently, the energy structure with coal is given priority to in China. This situation would not change in a short time which results in massive CO 2 emissions and increased pressure to natural environment. Carbon capture and storage technology (known as CCS) is a carbon abatement technology that separates CO 2 from industrial production or energy conversion, transports to the storage site after compression, and injects to the deep underground to make long-term isolation from the atmosphere. This technology achieves zero emission during fossil energy extraction and conversion, so the Intergovernmental Panel on Climate Change (IPCC) regarded it as one of the effective methods reducing greenhouse gas emissions in 2005. First, based on the development status of CCS in China, in terms of policies, technology research and CCS projects are described. SWOT is an analysis method that analyses objects all-around from four main aspects of strength, weakness, opportunity and threat. By SWOT, this paper focuses on analyzing the development environment currently in order to find the main stimulatives and obstacles and confirm the feasibility of CCS development in China. Finally, recommendations are proposed addressing the problems and obstacles. The results show that CCS is an effective way to reduce future emissions in China, as with the huge market, and the general support by Chinese government and green groups. However, relevant departments should strengthen economic and policy support at the same time. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Global warming and climate change concerns have triggered global efforts to reduce the concentration of atmospheric carbon dioxide (CO 2 ). Carbon dioxide capture and storage (CCS) is considered a crucial strategy for meeting CO 2 emission reduction targets. In this paper, various aspects of CCS are reviewed and discussed including the state of the art technologies for CO 2 capture, separation, transport, storage, leakage, monitoring, and life cycle analysis. The selection of specific CO 2 capture technology heavily depends on the type of CO 2 generating plant and fuel used. Among those CO 2 separation processes, absorption is the most mature and commonly adopted due to its higher efficiency and lower cost. Pipeline is considered to be the most viable solution for large volume of CO 2 transport. Among those geological formations for CO 2 storage, enhanced oil recovery is mature and has been practiced for many years but its economical viability for anthropogenic sources needs to be demonstrated. There are growing interests in CO 2 storage in saline aquifers due to their enormous potential storage capacity and several projects are in the pipeline for demonstration of its viability. There are multiple hurdles to CCS deployment including the absence of a clear business case for CCS investment and the absence of robust economic incentives to support the additional high capital and operating costs of the whole CCS process. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Climate change, food crisis, energy generation and environmental pollution are among the greatest threats and challenges faced by mankind today. Biochar production from various biomass sources has gained a lot of interests since its addition to degraded agricultural soils not only improve soil fertility and biomass yield, but also mitigate climate change through soil carbon sequestration and reduction in greenhouse gas emissions. There are enormous amounts of oil palm biomass generated along with the main palm oil production streams. A lot of research has been carried out to convert oil palm biomass into value-added products, but none except biochar has come close to be labeled as carbon negative products. In this paper, a review about production and application potential of biochar from oil palm biomass in Malaysia is given. Besides, some of the challenges in promoting biochar production and application, such as nature of the feedstocks, economic and logistical factors and market acceptance are highlighted as well. Producing biochar from oil palm biomass can potentially lead to a healthier environmental, societal and economic growth for the oil palm industry specifically, and enhances sustainability in worldwide context. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Small Island Developing States (SIDS) have a high dependency on fossil fuels for energy, water, and food production. This has negative implications on the carbon footprint and resilience of the SIDS. Wind power is one of the most promising options for renewable energy in the coastal areas of the SIDS. To account for the seasonal intermittent nature of wind energy, ammonia can be used for energy storage. In this paper, ammonia as an energy vector, is examined to reduce the costs and carbon footprint of energy on the island of Curaçao as a showcase for Caribbean SIDS. The levelized cost of electricity (LCOE) for the combined wind and ammonia energy storage system is 0.13 USD/kWh at a discount rate of 5%. This is cost competitive with the LCOE of 0.15–0.17 USD/kWh from heavy fuel oil, which is the main electricity source in the Caribbean SIDS. In Curaçao, the LCOE from LNG and coal without carbon capture and storage (CCS) is 0.07–0.10 USD/kWh and 0.09–0.14 USD/kWh, respectively. When CCS is applied, the LCOE from LNG and coal is 0.10–0.13 USD/kWh and 0.14–0.21 USD/kWh, respectively. This suggests that the LCOE of the combined wind and ammonia energy storage system can be competitive with fossil-based alternatives with carbon capture and storage (CCS) in a decarbonized energy landscape. The CO 2 -footprint of the combined wind energy and ammonia energy storage system is 0.03 kg CO 2 /kWh, compared to 0.04 kg CO 2 /kWh and 0.12 kg CO 2 /kWh for LNG-/coal-based energy generation with CCS, respectively. [Display omitted] • Green ammonia seasonal energy storage is feasible in Curaçao (Caribbean SIDS). • Absorption Enhanced Haber-Bosch using Ru-catalysts results in a LCOE of 0.13 USD/kWh. • Wind energy combined with ammonia energy storage leads to a carbon footprint of just 0.03 kg CO 2 /kWh. • Hybrid thermal and membrane processes enable zero-liquid discharge seawater desalination. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Natural changes in climate due to internal as well as external factors, like anthropogenic emission, fossil fuel combustion, transportation and heating which cause CO2 emissions is one of the major issues which causes global warming (increasing concentrations of greenhouse gases). The production of algae is identified as one of the solutions of carbon sequestration along with production of renewable fuel solving the problem of food crisis to a certain extent. This review paper summarizes how CO2 levels affected micro algal species. Several species of algae as Scenedesmus obliquus, Botryococcus braunii, Chlorella vulgaris, Nannochloropsis oculata have been reported to accumulate high concentration of lipid. These species are suitable for biofuel production as well as Carbon fixation. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Zero carbon building has been regarded as an important approach in reducing the carbon emissions associated with buildings. However, despite significant policy drivers, the uptake of this approach has been low. This paper examines the concepts and develops a theoretical model of the system boundaries of zero carbon buildings. Previous research is largely grounded in the net (nearly) zero carbon/energy parameter and focuses on buildings operations. However, there is increasing awareness of the need for lifecycle approaches to address carbon emissions and for boundaries to be defined to help elaborate the concept and guide research. The developed model covers eight types of boundaries, the policy timeframe, building lifecycle, geographic, climatic, stakeholder, sector, density and institutional boundaries. These boundaries are dynamic and interactive. It is concluded that zero carbon buildings should be regarded as complex socio-technical systems, but should not be exaggerated as surrogates for sustainable buildings. The findings are confirmed with case studies of five pioneering zero carbon buildings worldwide. The case studies demonstrate the great diversity and complexity of zero carbon building boundaries and assert that without the explicit specification of the boundaries, the comparison of cases in different contexts is like "comparing apples to pears." [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Abstract: This research focuses on the enhanced geothermal systems (EGS) potential in China and related technology, especially induced microseismicity and carbon storage combination. Hydraulic fracturing mechanisms applied in EGS were compared with similar fracturing mechanisms for shale gas. Besides, geothermal gradient in China was mapped based on the most recent heat flow values with interpolation method. The development history of geothermal plants in China was comprehensively reviewed through case studies. This paper revealed that the geothermal measuring wells in China were too shallow and too few to offer an accurate estimation. A coming work should aim at heat flow survey in deep layer, induced microseismicity mechanisms, and economically feasible scope in China. These problems will strengthen practical understanding and facilitate extensive application of EGS in China. [Copyright &y& Elsevier]

Abstract: This paper uses 19 criteria to assess whether nuclear fission power can be a part of sustainable development. This yes or no qualitative evaluation is due prior to ongoing marketability assessment and promotion of nuclear power by, for example, the IAEA, the IEA and the UK government. The criteria are classified into five groups. ‘Planet’ results demonstrate that the incompatibility of nuclear expansion with electricity efficiency and full renewable power deployment largely overshadows the carbon-free steam generation of nuclear fission. ‘Prosperity’ analyses show that including rolled-off costs and risks would raise bills to heights difficult to quantify due to doubts, long-term invisibility and irreversibility. ‘Risks’ may be catastrophic and are not insurable, while weaponry proliferation adds a further dimension. ‘People’ analyses reveal that some nuclear power is affordable for present generations when many costs remain unpaid; however, developing countries cannot afford the capital costs and technology intensity, and catastrophes wreak havoc on national economies, singling out exposed communities losing their habitats. ‘Politics’ assessments demonstrate that nuclear technocracy dominates the scene in many countries; the technocrats heavily influence policy-makers, the media, and celebrities speaking out in favor of nuclear. We identify the need for an independent global agency and for independent national nuclear regulatory institutions to safeguard the public interest. [Copyright &y& Elsevier]

Abstract: Presently, the world is considering renewable solar energy as an indispensable/long-term/nature-friendly option for power generation. The Kingdom of Saudi Arabia (K.S.A) is blessed with considerable amount of solar radiation. Commercial/residential buildings in K.S.A. consume about 10–45% of the total electric energy. In the present paper, the economic analysis of utilization of hybrid PV–diesel-battery power systems to meet the load of a typical residential building (with annual electrical energy demand of 35,120kWh) in different provinces/zones of K.S.A. has been studied by analyzing long-term solar radiation data. Five geographically distinct sites representing different provinces of the Kingdom have been selected. The monthly average daily solar radiation of K.S.A. varies from 3.03–7.51kWh/m2. NREL's (HOMER Energy's) HOMER software has been employed to perform the analysis. The simulation results indicate that for a hybrid system composed of 4kWpPV system together with 10kW diesel system and a battery storage of 3h of autonomy (equivalent to three hours of average load), the PV penetration is 22%., 21%, 22%, 20%, and 20% at Abha (Southern Province), Hofuf (Eastern Province), Qurayat (Northern Province), Taif (Western Province), and Riyadh (Central Province) respectively. The cost of generating energy (COE, US$/kWh) from the above hybrid system has been found to be 0.179$/kWh, 0.179$/kWh, 0.178$/kWh, 0.180$/kWh, and 0.181$/kWh at Abha, Hofuf, Qurayat, Taif, and Riyadh respectively. For a given hybrid system, the PV penetration is higher in Sourthern and Northern Province as compared to other provinces. Also, the study has examined the impact of PV penetration on: carbon emissions (Tons/year), diesel fuel consumption, Net Present Cost, cost of energy, etc. Furthermore, for a given hybrid configuration (for Northern Province), the study exhibits that increase in PV capacity results in decrease in the diesel-fuel-consumption/carbon-emissions and increase in COE./NPC/excess-energy. [Copyright &y& Elsevier]

The current editorial summarized some of the scientific works presented in the Sustainable Energy and Environmental Protection (SEEP) conference-held at the University of the West of Scotland, UK, 2018. The selected work was directly related to the scope of the Renewable, Sustainable Energy Reviews (RSER) journal. During the conference activities, experts from all around the world in the subjects of: renewable energy, climate change, optimization, and economics presented and discussed the progress made in renewable energy sources, as well as the new strategies for protecting the environment from the hazards connected with fossil fuel utilization. The methods presented in the conference focused on several directions: the development of efficient energy conversion systems with low/no environmental impacts; the suggested policies to widespread renewable energies; the restriction in the emission of greenhouse gases, and the recent progresses in CO 2 capture. This editorial focused on the renewable energy developments and their positive effect on the climate change, and briefly summarized the accepted manuscripts in this issue. • Effects of renewable energy on climate change. • Background on the International Conference on Sustainable Energy and Environmental Protection SEEP. • Summary of selected papers of SEEP 2018. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The implementation of negative emission technologies (NETs) is vital to limit global warming to manageable levels. Despite the lack of technological maturity of NETs, their full-scale implementations are expected to take place within the next few decades. Potential interactions with energy infrastructures need to be considered during scale-up. This paper develops a graphical targeting technique for the implementation of energy-consuming NETs (EC-NETs) for sustainable energy planning. The graphical targeting technique is illustrated using a case study, which demonstrates the usefulness of EC-NETs for an effective carbon management strategy. However, the energy demand of EC-NETs requires compensation from additional renewable energy sources. The deployment of CO 2 Capture and Storage (CCS) decreases the requirement of renewable energy sources by 88%. On the other hand, the implementation of EC-NETs coupled with energy-producing NETs (EP-NETs) eliminates the need for renewable energy sources to compensate for the incremental demand, as EP-NETs supplies the energy requirements of EC-NETs. CCS deployment reduces the use of EP-NETs by 82%. The case studies illustrate how a systematic methodology for integrated energy planning can optimise decarbonisation while minimising the impacts on energy infrastructure. [Display omitted] • Concurrent solutions are needed for future decarbonisation. • EC-NETs provide a good alternative for cases with limited availability of EP-NETs. • The graphical targeting method provides good insights for CO 2 emission removal. • EC-NETs utilisation increases the minimum implementation of make-up energy. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The current editorial summarized some of the scientific works presented in the Sustainable Energy and Environmental Protection (SEEP) conference-held at the University of the West of Scotland, UK, 2018. The selected work was directly related to the scope of the Renewable, Sustainable Energy Reviews (RSER) journal. During the conference activities, experts from all around the world in the subjects of: renewable energy, climate change, optimization, and economics presented and discussed the progress made in renewable energy sources, as well as the new strategies for protecting the environment from the hazards connected with fossil fuel utilization. The methods presented in the conference focused on several directions: the development of efficient energy conversion systems with low/no environmental impacts; the suggested policies to widespread renewable energies; the restriction in the emission of greenhouse gases, and the recent progresses in CO 2 capture. This editorial focused on the renewable energy developments and their positive effect on the climate change, and briefly summarized the accepted manuscripts in this issue. • Effects of renewable energy on climate change. • Background on the International Conference on Sustainable Energy and Environmental Protection SEEP. • Summary of selected papers of SEEP 2018. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The implementation of negative emission technologies (NETs) is vital to limit global warming to manageable levels. Despite the lack of technological maturity of NETs, their full-scale implementations are expected to take place within the next few decades. Potential interactions with energy infrastructures need to be considered during scale-up. This paper develops a graphical targeting technique for the implementation of energy-consuming NETs (EC-NETs) for sustainable energy planning. The graphical targeting technique is illustrated using a case study, which demonstrates the usefulness of EC-NETs for an effective carbon management strategy. However, the energy demand of EC-NETs requires compensation from additional renewable energy sources. The deployment of CO 2 Capture and Storage (CCS) decreases the requirement of renewable energy sources by 88%. On the other hand, the implementation of EC-NETs coupled with energy-producing NETs (EP-NETs) eliminates the need for renewable energy sources to compensate for the incremental demand, as EP-NETs supplies the energy requirements of EC-NETs. CCS deployment reduces the use of EP-NETs by 82%. The case studies illustrate how a systematic methodology for integrated energy planning can optimise decarbonisation while minimising the impacts on energy infrastructure. [Display omitted] • Concurrent solutions are needed for future decarbonisation. • EC-NETs provide a good alternative for cases with limited availability of EP-NETs. • The graphical targeting method provides good insights for CO 2 emission removal. • EC-NETs utilisation increases the minimum implementation of make-up energy. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]