“Direct Air Capture: a Silver Bullet or a Trojan Horse?
Direct Air Capture (DAC) is one of several methods designed to extract carbon dioxide, the most common greenhouse gas, directly from the atmosphere. According to the Intergovernmental Panel on Climate Change, carbon dioxide removal (CDR) will almost certainly be necessary to prevent the worst effects of climate change, and DAC is a leading option for achieving CDR. However, DAC remains an exceptionally controversial topic in discussions about decarbonisation and climate change mitigation. To some, DAC is nothing more than an expensive trickery and, worse, a “get-out-of-jail-free card” that allows continued fossil fuel production and consumption. Even among its supporters, there is no consensus on the best technological approaches for DAC. And meanwhile, the climate clock is ticking.
This CERE Seminar will explore the case for CDR via DAC and the potential technological options. The presenter will address the controversy surrounding DAC in light of recent reports and scientific advancements. Additionally, the seminar will examine the regional decarbonisation outlook, questioning whether DAC will fulfil its net zero promise or if it will be impeded by technical, political, and financial challenges.”