Carbon Capture and Storage (CCS) Technologies and the Potential of Tree Planting to Increase CO2 Sequestration

The increase in global temperatures is mostly due to anthropogenic greenhouse gas emissions, particularly carbon dioxide (CO2), which presents a critical challenge for humanity. This thesis investigates methodology, effectiveness and cost analysis of different strategies to counteract global warming and focusing on the potential of reducing carbon emissions and enhancing negative emissions through tree planting. The first part of the thesis delves into the main sources of CO2 in the atmosphere. Fossil fuels, cement production, refineries, iron and steel industry, petrochemical industry and biomass are discussed in terms of their emissions. In addition, it examines different countries’ CO2 emissions. Thesis also contextualizes its findings within the framework established by the Intergovernmental Panel on Climate Change (IPCC), synthesizing key reports and assessments to underscore the urgency of action in mitigating climate change. It also examines the outcomes of the 21st Conference of the Parties (COP21) to the United Nations Framework Convention on Climate Change (UNFCCC), particularly the Paris Agreement, and its implications for global efforts to address carbon emissions and promote sustainable development. Next, the thesis investigates the concept of negative carbon emissions, which involves removing CO2 from the atmosphere through existing technological solutions like bioenergy with carbon capture and storage (BECCS), direct air capture (DAC); nature-based solutions like afforestation and reforestation. Moreover, the thesis is dedicated to analyzing the potential of tree planting as a scalable and cost-effective method for carbon sequestration. It evaluates the carbon sequestration capacity of forests, the factors influencing tree growth and survival, and the socio-economic benefits associated with afforestation and reforestation projects, offset carbon emissions and mitigate climate change impacts. It considers factors such as land availability, ecosystem restoration, biodiversity conservation in designing and implementing tree planting. By synthesizing insights from scientific research, policy analysis, and case studies, this thesis provides valuable insights into the potential of tree planting to contribute to global efforts in combating climate change, and it underscores the need for integrated approaches that combine emissions reduction strategies with negative emissions technologies to achieve long-term climate resilience and sustainability.