Carbon sequestration

Definition

Carbon sequestration is the process of capturing and storing atmospheric carbon dioxide to mitigate climate change. This natural or artificial technique helps remove CO2 from the atmosphere, which is essential for balancing greenhouse gas concentrations and maintaining ecosystem health.

5 Must Know Facts For Your Next Test

1. Carbon sequestration can occur naturally through processes like photosynthesis in plants or through geological formations where CO2 is trapped underground.
2. Artificial methods include carbon capture and storage (CCS) technologies, which capture CO2 emissions from sources like power plants before they reach the atmosphere.
3. Healthy forests and ocean ecosystems play a significant role in carbon sequestration, absorbing large amounts of CO2 and storing it in biomass and sediments.
4. Soil health is crucial for effective carbon sequestration; practices like no-till farming and cover cropping enhance soil's ability to store carbon.
5. International agreements, like the Paris Agreement, emphasize the importance of carbon sequestration in global efforts to combat climate change.

Review Questions

• How does carbon sequestration through photosynthesis contribute to ecosystem stability?
  • Photosynthesis plays a vital role in carbon sequestration by allowing plants to absorb CO2 from the atmosphere and convert it into organic matter. This process not only helps reduce atmospheric CO2 levels but also supports the growth of plants, which provide food and habitat for various organisms. By maintaining healthy plant populations, ecosystems can become more resilient against climate change effects, leading to greater stability overall.
• Evaluate the effectiveness of artificial carbon sequestration methods compared to natural processes.
  • Artificial carbon sequestration methods, such as carbon capture and storage (CCS), have been developed to effectively reduce emissions from major sources. While these technologies can capture significant amounts of CO2, they often require substantial investment and infrastructure. In contrast, natural processes like photosynthesis and soil enhancement are more cost-effective and sustainable in the long term. However, both approaches are complementary; combining them can maximize overall carbon reduction efforts.
• Synthesize the relationship between carbon sequestration, climate change mitigation, and ecosystem services.
  • Carbon sequestration is intricately linked to climate change mitigation as it directly reduces atmospheric CO2 levels, a key driver of global warming. By enhancing carbon storage in forests, soils, and oceans, we not only combat climate change but also support vital ecosystem services such as biodiversity preservation, water regulation, and soil fertility. This interconnectedness means that effective carbon sequestration strategies can lead to healthier ecosystems that provide essential benefits to humans while addressing environmental challenges.

Related terms

Photosynthesis: The process by which green plants and some other organisms use sunlight to synthesize foods with the help of carbon dioxide and water, releasing oxygen as a byproduct.

Carbon Cycle: The series of processes through which carbon compounds are interconverted in the environment, including absorption by plants, release through respiration, and decomposition.

Forestry Management: The practice of managing forested areas to ensure sustainability, which includes practices that enhance carbon storage in trees and soil.