Article

Carbon capture technology has been utilized since the 1920s, initially for separating CO2 from methane in fossil gas. Carbon capture and utilization (CCU) emerged in the 1970s, while the concept of carbon capture and storage (CCS) was introduced in 1977.

Various post-combustion technologies, including solvent-based scrubbing and solid sorbents, are under research to enhance capture rates and reduce energy consumption. Policymakers face challenges balancing fossil fuel use and CO2 removal.

The application of CCS in biomass-fired plants results in net CO2 removals. Biorefineries can lower carbon intensity through CO2 capture from fermentation. Nordic companies, including Finland's Metsä Group and Sweden's Södra, are planning carbon capture initiatives.

Currently, 125 biogas plants in Europe capture 1.17 million tonnes of biogenic CO2 annually, with expectations to exceed 2 million tonnes by 2027. By 2040, EU biomethane plants could capture up to 89 million tonnes of biogenic CO2, contributing significantly to the EU's carbon capture targets.