4 Carbon capture and sequestration

4.1 The impact of fossil fuel power stations on the climate

The UK government has published a document entitled ‘A strategy for developing carbon abatement technologies for fossil fuel use: Carbon Abatement Technologies Programme’.

Page 3 explores the question ‘Why do we need a UK CAT strategy?’ and considers the impact that increasing atmospheric levels of CO₂ are having on the climate and consequently are likely to have on the UK. The document also indicates the level of CO₂ emission reductions that are necessary and the timescales involved. The UK is a minor emitter of CO₂ but, nevertheless, needs to provide a lead. The UK has a target of cutting emissions by 60 per cent by 2050.

Page 4 of the document asks ‘Is it so difficult to reduce fossil fuel consumption in the UK and worldwide?’ and indicates that worldwide demand for electricity, particularly from China and India, is set to double by 2030, which will require a massive increase in electrical generating capacity, much of which will be met by fossil-fuelled power stations.

If we are to reduce carbon emissions and the consequent impact on climate change, then the deployment of CCS techniques will be an essential part of the strategy.