Environmental Solutions
Carbon Capture and Storage
Fast Facts
Electricity demand is increasing as we use more technology devices to gain efficiencies in our jobs, schools and lives. As Internet-based communication and transactions increase, so does the use of electricity. Millions of letters that were hand-written and delivered hundreds of miles by semi-trucks are now typed on a computer and sent via e-mail in seconds.
The growth in Internet connectivity results in fewer emissions from delivery vehicles. That's the concept of Ecowatts. More watts equals more efficiency, which equals more ecology.
Several studies support the Ecowatts concept. The study "How Electric Technologies Will Improve Health" points out that electricification is "casually linked to improved health conditions and increased life span." The study concludes that boosting a nation's electricity use 10-fold increases the average citizens' lifespan by 10 years. Click here to read the study.
Coal must be a growing part of the U.S. energy supply. Existing and emerging clean coal technologies will result in environmental improvement, while meeting the world’s growing demand for electricity.
Carbon capture and storage (CCS) involves capturing CO2 before it is emitted into the atmosphere. Once the carbon is captured, it is compressed and injected underground.
Using CO2 for enhanced oil recovery is particularly promising and could lead to the production of 2 to 3 million barrels of oil per day, according to a National Coal Council study.