Question 20

Carbon capture and storage (CCS) has increasingly been positioned as a critical tool in the global effort to limit atmospheric warming. The process entails separating carbon dioxide from emissions streams at major industrial facilities, such as coal-fired power stations and cement plants. Following capture, the gas is compressed and injected deep into geological formations, such as saline aquifers, intended to sequester it indefinitely. While the theoretical benefits of CCS are clear, its practical application remains a subject of intense debate. Advocates emphasize that CCS provides a necessary pathway to decarbonize heavy industries that cannot easily switch to renewable electricity. Without such technology, they argue, achieving net-zero targets is virtually impossible. Conversely, skeptics highlight the significant energy penalty incurred during the capture phase, which paradoxically requires burning more fuel to generate the same amount of net power. Additionally, the integrity of geological storage poses a long-term risk; even minor leakages over centuries could undermine the climate benefits. Consequently, CCS occupies a complex position: it is viewed by many as an indispensable bridge technology, yet it is burdened by economic and environmental uncertainties that hinder its widespread adoption. According to the passage, which factor contributes to the controversy surrounding carbon capture and storage?