A Spotlight on Carbon Capture Advocates
The Cop29 climate summit in Baku, Azerbaijan, has drawn scrutiny for granting access to nearly 500 lobbyists representing carbon capture and storage (CCS) technologies. This increase, even as overall participation dropped to 70,000 from last year’s 85,000, underscores the growing prominence of CCS in global climate discussions.
These lobbyists, including 55 invited as guests by the Azerbaijani government, have positioned themselves close to critical negotiations. Their influence has raised concerns about the summit’s direction, with activists questioning whether CCS advocacy is overshadowing renewable energy solutions.
The Case for Carbon Capture
CCS involves capturing CO2 emissions from industrial activities and storing them underground. Proponents view it as essential for addressing emissions in sectors like cement and chemicals, where renewable energy options are currently limited. Advocates argue that CCS complements renewables and is a necessary tool to meet the Paris Agreement’s goal of limiting global warming to 1.5 degrees Celsius.
Olivia Powis, CEO of the Carbon Capture & Storage Association, emphasized the importance of CCS in reducing emissions, particularly in industries that are challenging to decarbonize. She noted its potential to both capture CO2 and stabilize atmospheric levels, playing a crucial role in the global transition to net-zero emissions.
Critics Raise Concerns Over Greenwashing
Despite its promise, CCS has faced significant criticism. Environmentalists argue that the technology often underperforms, failing to achieve its ambitious goals at scale. Critics also highlight that CCS projects frequently serve fossil fuel extraction through enhanced oil recovery, where captured CO2 is injected into oil wells to extract additional fuel.
Rachel Kennerley of the Center for International Environmental Law (CIEL) described the large presence of CCS lobbyists at Cop29 as an example of “greenwashing.” She warned that emphasizing CCS could delay the necessary shift away from fossil fuels and redirect critical resources from renewable energy projects.
Lobbyists’ Influence on Policy
The influence of CCS advocates at Cop29 has also drawn attention to the policy implications. Negotiators are discussing carbon market rules under the Paris Agreement, including mechanisms that allow carbon credits for emissions reductions achieved through CCS. Activists fear that such policies could entrench fossil fuel use, undermining efforts to phase out carbon-intensive industries.
CIEL’s findings reveal the deep involvement of CCS advocates in shaping these policies. Their access to high-level discussions has fueled concerns about whether the summit is prioritizing genuine climate solutions or extending the lifespan of fossil fuels.
The Path Forward for Climate Action
The growing role of CCS in climate talks raises critical questions about the future of global climate strategies. While its supporters see it as a bridge to a sustainable future, opponents worry it could lock the world into prolonged fossil fuel dependence.
As Cop29 unfolds, the summit has become a pivotal moment for determining whether climate action will lean toward innovative but uncertain technologies like CCS or focus on proven renewable energy solutions. The decisions made in Baku will shape the trajectory of global decarbonization efforts for years to come.
Join the Discussion
What’s your take on carbon capture technologies? Should they be a cornerstone of climate action, or do they risk delaying the shift to renewable energy? Share your thoughts in the comments below!