CO2 Sequestration

CO2 is released into the atmosphere by the combustion or decomposition of organic matter. For instance, the carbon (C) in wood combines with oxygen (O2) during combustion, resulting in CO2 that disperses into the air. 

Conversely, through photosynthesis, plants and trees take in CO2, retain the carbon , and emit oxygen back into the atmosphere. This process is known as carbon sequestration.

Measurements indicate that in the early 19th century, atmospheric CO2 levels were about 200 parts per million (ppm). By the early 20th century, this had risen to approximately 300 ppm, and by 2020, it reached 420 ppm. The industrial revolution, characterized by electricity-demanding factories, fossil fuel combustion, and a growing population, has contributed to an increase in atmospheric carbon. Concurrently, widespread deforestation has reduced carbon reabsorption. The consequences of this increase include droughts, melting ice caps, higher temperatures, and erratic weather patterns. Plants and trees counteract this through photosynthesis, absorbing CO2 and storing it in their roots, trunks, and branches. Trees draw water and minerals from the soil into their roots, which then travel up through the bark to the leaves. Here, CO2 from the air combines with the sap, and sunlight transforms it into glucose and oxygen. Trees use glucose for growth and release oxygen into the air. Roughly 1 cubic meter of biomass or wood equates to about 1 ton of atmospheric CO2 absorbed. Planting fast-growing trees can hasten CO2 absorption. When a tree matures and its CO2 absorption rate slows, it is harvested to make way for new growth. Converting the wood into furniture, decorative items, doors, etc., sequesters the CO2 for an extended period. Moreover, processing byproducts like branches and sawdust into fibers for insulation panels, concrete enhancement, and other construction materials can significantly lower the carbon footprint of new building projects.

Carbon credits are a crucial element of carbon trading, a market-based approach to cut greenhouse gas emissions. A carbon credit grants the right to emit one metric ton of CO2, or its equivalent in other gases, into the atmosphere. Here's a general overview of their operation: 

1) Issuance: Governments or international bodies issue carbon credits to entities that lower their greenhouse gas emissions beyond a set baseline or engage in CO2 removal activities like afforestation. 

2) Trading: These credits can be traded in the carbon market. Entities exceeding their emission limits can buy credits to compensate for their overages, while those with extra credits can sell them. 

3) Offsetting: Buying carbon credits enables organizations to balance their carbon footprint by funding external emission reduction projects, such as renewable energy, energy efficiency, methane capture, or reforestation. 

4) Markets: Some regions enforce emission caps on companies through a compliance market. Carbon credits offer a flexible way for these companies to meet regulations by reducing emissions or buying credits. 

Conversely, the voluntary carbon market allows entities to buy credits to offset their emissions or support environmental projects voluntarily. Carbon credits thus incentivize emission reduction and promote investment in carbon-lowering initiatives, aiding the global climate change mitigation effort.