CO2 management: key to the net-zero strategy

CO2 management plays a central role on the path to the net-zero target by 2050. Innovative technologies for the capture, storage and use of CO2 can reduce emissions that are difficult to avoid. However, a clear political framework and a targeted funding framework are needed to develop these technologies in Switzerland.

The members of scienceindustries support the net-zero target for greenhouse gas emissions by 2050 as a fundamental objective and are working hard to reduce greenhouse gas emissions by optimising processes in production plants and supply chains. At the same time, they are paving the way for companies and society to achieve their CO2 targets with a wide range of technologies, products and services. CO2 management will also play a central role in achieving the goal of net zero emissions by 2050 – this includes technologies for capturing, storing, using and extracting CO2 to reduce emissions from industrial plants and remove atmospheric CO2.

Three main technologies are used for CO2 management: Firstly, carbon capture and storage (CCS), whereby CO2 is safely stored in geological formations. Secondly, carbon capture and utilisation (CCU), whereby captured CO2 is used in synthetic products or fuels. Thirdly, there is the removal of CO2 from the atmosphere (negative emission technologies, NET), where CO2 is removed from the air by technical means and permanently stored.

Infrastructure and political framework conditions as drivers

For these technologies to be successfully deployed, a well-developed and efficient CO2 transport infrastructure is essential. Captured CO2 must be transported either for further use in industrial processes or for permanent storage. Various transport options are available, such as pipelines, ships or transport via road and rail networks. However, without a suitable infrastructure, the use of these technologies will remain limited, which could hinder progress towards the net-zero target.

Another challenge lies in the financing and the necessary political framework conditions for CCU, CCS and NET technologies. The Federal Council and Parliament intend to address this issue in the near future and develop specific proposals for the financing and the role of the various stakeholders. scienceindustries is committed to a coherent policy that creates incentives for sustainable CO2 management and provides a stable investment framework.

Development in the coming years will be crucial

Future framework conditions must take into account the development of the technology over time, ensure a fair distribution of costs and be based on international standards. The coming years will be crucial for the further development and implementation of CCU, CCS and NET technologies. A constructive dialogue on financing options and regulatory frameworks will be necessary to achieve the ambitious climate targets to which the industry has committed itself.