Direct air capture: Filtering carbon as a possible solution to help cool the planet

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  Quantumrun Foresight
• March 12, 2022

Insight summary

Large-scale direct air capture (DAC) technology is emerging as a method to "recapture" carbon dioxide (CO2) from the atmosphere. Utilizing liquid systems or solid sorbent filters, DAC can extract CO2 for storage or to create commercial products like fuels and chemicals. While offering potential climate benefits, the technology also presents opportunities for industries and job growth, but it needs to be implemented responsibly to support net-zero emissions goals.

Large-scale direct air capture context

Direct air capture (DAC) technology offers a way to extract carbon dioxide (CO2) from the surrounding atmosphere, rather than from specific extraction sites like oil wells. The harvested CO2 can be stored deep underground or used to create commercial products such as chemicals and fuels. Two main technologies are employed for this purpose: liquid systems using chemical solutions like hydroxide, and solid direct air capture technology utilizing solid sorbent filters that bond with CO2.

Most large-scale applications of harvested CO2 may result in its re-release into the atmosphere, such as when synthetic fuel is burned. This doesn't lead to negative emissions but may offer climate benefits if synthetic fuels replace conventional fossil fuels. In the transition to net-zero emissions, the CO2 used for synthetic fuels must increasingly be harvested from bioenergy supplies or the atmosphere to minimize delayed emissions from fossil-based CO2.

The implementation of DAC technology is not without challenges. It requires careful consideration of its environmental impact, potential re-release of CO2, and alignment with broader climate goals. However, it represents a promising avenue for reducing atmospheric CO2 levels and contributing to a sustainable energy future.

Disruptive impact

Carbon removal technologies like DAC may become essential in achieving climate goals, but they should not be seen as a substitute for reducing emissions or a justification for delayed action. The energy industry needs to invest in DAC at scale promptly to clarify future deployment costs and ensure that these technologies contribute to net-zero emissions.

The rise of DAC could lead to increased demand in key industries such as equipment and steel manufacturing, cement, chemicals, power, and natural gas. A typical 1 megaton capacity DAC plant could generate approximately 3,500 jobs across the supply chain. With global implementation, DAC might create at least 300,000 additional jobs in construction, engineering, equipment manufacturing, and operation and maintenance at DAC facilities. These high-wage jobs represent significant growth opportunities, particularly for chemical and natural gas employees.

The disruptive impact of DAC extends beyond technology and industry. It reflects a shift in how we approach carbon management, emphasizing innovation, collaboration, and responsible stewardship. The potential benefits need to be balanced with careful planning and alignment with broader environmental and societal goals.

Implications of large-scale direct air capture

Wider implications of large-scale direct air capture may include:

• Removal or recycling of carbon, reducing atmospheric CO2 levels.
• Captured CO2 used in the production of fuels, chemicals, building materials, and other CO2-containing products.
• Enhanced growth of vegetables in greenhouses by supplying harvested CO2 to farmers.
• Provision of CO2 for enhanced oil recovery.
• Potential to support net-zero emissions goals through responsible implementation.
• Influence on energy policies and regulations, encouraging sustainable practices.
• Encouragement of international collaboration and standardization in carbon management.
• Investment in research and development to optimize DAC technology and reduce costs.

Questions to consider

• Considering the high costs and the requirement of large amounts of low-carbon energy involved in large-scale direct air capture, do you think that this approach is viable?
• Do you think that by providing CO2 to the fossil fuel industry for enhanced oil recovery, the carbon benefits of DACCS are undermined?