What should be done with the carbon dioxide extracted from the atmosphere by Direct Air Capture technology?

Abstract

Direct Air Capture (DAC) technology has become more greatly incentivized in Canada as a potential solution for mitigating climate change by extracting carbon dioxide (CO2) directly from the atmosphere. Geological sequestration, chemical conversion, and enhanced oil recovery (EOR) represent the primary applications of captured CO2. While chemical transformation and EOR offer economic advantages, they fail to provide the long-term climate benefits necessary to stabilize the global temperature. Geological storage aims to ensure the permanent sequestration of CO2, mitigating the risk of re-emission and offering a scalable solution capable of achieving negative emissions. Despite challenges such as high costs and long-term monitoring requirements, geological sequestration is required to meet the Paris Agreement's climate goals. Therefore, Natural Resources Canada should prioritize and legislate policies mandating the permanent geological storage of captured CO2, safeguarding a lasting climate solution.