Decarbonization and Technology
Decarbonization is recognized as the key to reducing carbon emissions. This is because, when done correctly, decarbonizing will provide a stable economic future for society. It will also prevent catastrophic climate change that could result in famine, drought, and extreme weather events. The most popular way of achieving this goal is through renewable power sources such as solar or wind energy. These currently account for about one-third of all new capacity worldwide. However, fossil fuels still account for over 70% of global electricity production.
Renewable energies are set to grow rapidly. The forecast indicates they should make up half the world’s generating capacity by 2040. China drives the movement and has heavy investments in thin solar technology.
The cost of renewable power sources is also becoming more competitive. Especially considering that fossil fuels and their operational costs are lower than that of traditional thermal plants. The renewable sources need a constant input fuel making it an attractive option for countries heavily reliant on imported oil.
Solar panels offer another inexpensive way to tap into renewables. They also reduce carbon emissions. Solar panels are now about 55% cheaper globally than during 2010 according to Bloomberg New Energy Finance (BNEF) data.
The latest in decarbonization technology
The latest in decarbonization technology is the use of fuel cells. Fuel Cells are electrochemical devices, which convert chemical energy into electrical power. They generate electricity from substances that are otherwise considered waste products such as hydrogen or natural gas, for example. This means they have the potential to reduce carbon emissions while producing sustainable and affordable energy sources for communities around the world. Also for those who need them most. It includes those living without access to grid-connected power.
Technology that helps to decarbonize operational costs are present in equipment, and building design. Equipment includes technology that helps to increase the efficiency of production processes such as machines or vehicles. The building design focuses on reducing energy use through proper insulation, ventilation, and windows.
Buildings have a large impact on carbon emissions since they account for 40% of global CO² emissions. They are from fossil fuel combustion according to the United States Environmental Protection Agency (EPA). To decarbonize buildings, there are various actions which include retrofitting old buildings with new technologies. For example, it includes heating systems and designing new buildings more efficiently using renewable resources like solar power. So that no greenhouse gases are emitted during construction.
Operational Cost Reductions
There is also the use of operational cost reductions. Here we optimize heating and cooling system operation to reduce energy consumption by using less natural gas or electricity during peak periods. We need to improve building efficiency with upgrades such as LED lighting. Or include setting up a program for shutoff devices that will automatically turn off the power on appliances when they are not in use. All these actions are possible without any significant changes to the structure of buildings. This tactic would help companies cut down their carbon emissions. It helps because it reduces energy usage but still keeps productivity levels high.
How to increase operational efficiency and reduce costs?
The first step is to replace old equipment with new technologies that will reduce the number of staff necessary. For example, energy-efficient lighting and heating systems can significantly cut down operational costs by reducing power consumption. The second step is to establish a company waste management program. Here employees are incentivized for recycling materials or reusing them in creative ways so they do not end up as garbage. Another way companies can boost their operational efficiency and reduce cost is through better planning. Instead of assigning tasks based on urgency, managers should assign jobs according to priority. This means it would be more effective for organizations if they use resources wisely than trying to get ahead quickly.
What does the future of decarbonization look like?
The future of decarbonization will be a combination of traditional and new technologies. It will have renewable power generation. In particular, solar energy is becoming more popular as it becomes cheaper to install panels for residential or commercial use.
In addition, public transportation systems are continuing to improve around the world. So cities can become less dependent on cars. These initiatives have led towards reducing dependence on fossil fuels. It is because car owners need not refuel their vehicles often if they take public transport instead. These changes have made our society more sustainable and environmentally friendly.
Strategies of different countries
The United States of America is taking the initiative to decarbonize by developing a plan that will limit co-pollutants from being released into the atmosphere. This strategy moves towards improving air quality and ensuring US citizens are living in an environment where pollutants are regulated. It gives them control over their own health. Another country leading climate change mitigation efforts in Canada. The plan includes significant investments in green infrastructure, transportation electrification, and clean technology innovation. It also includes forest management practices like planting trees or using bioenergy with carbon capture and storage facilities (CCS) for oil sands extraction operations.
Many Asian countries focus on advanced technologies. They help to make much progress in terms of renewable energy adoption. These innovations contribute to decreasing prices for solar panels so more people can choose sustainably. Renewables such as solar and wind power are becoming more popular to produce electricity. These sources have a lower carbon footprint than traditional fossil fuels. Other countries are focusing on electricity conservation and the construction of new nuclear plants.
Boron in decarbonization
Boron helps to decarbonize coal and natural gas by removing the carbon from the fuel source.
The boron in reaction with calcium oxide produces a mixture of water vapor and hydrogen. This is reused as fuels or converted into hydrocarbon products for use in other industries.
Decarbonization plants need to have combined heat and power (CHP) systems so they emit lesser greenhouse gases than traditional boilers. Boron has a myriad of uses in industry, including aluminum refining and steel production. It also reduces the cost of carbon dioxide emission reduction.
The use of boron as a raw material for industrial processes means that it releases less CO2 when burned than other materials might. Therefore, using more borax (a compound that contains mostly boric acid) in these processes could lead to reductions in GHG emissions and helps with decarbonization.
KEY TAKEAWAYS
Reducing carbon emissions is necessary to keep Earth habitable for human life. It is possible with technology advancements, operational cost reductions in businesses, or by changing the habits of the individual. Even small changes make a difference.
