New York City has committed to reducing its greenhouse gas emissions significantly in the coming years as part of its efforts to combat climate change. One of the most significant sources of emissions in the city comes from buildings, which account for nearly 70% of the city’s total emissions. In order to achieve its emissions reduction goals, the city is exploring various strategies, including the use of carbon capture technology, to help reduce emissions from buildings.
What Is Carbon Capture?
Carbon capture, also known as carbon capture and storage (CCS), is a process that involves capturing carbon dioxide (CO2) emissions from sources such as power plants or industrial facilities and then storing them underground or using them for other purposes. This technology has the potential to play a crucial role in reducing emissions from buildings, particularly in urban areas like New York City.
Using Carbon Capture Technology
When it comes to NYC buildings, carbon capture technology can be deployed in several ways to help cut down on emissions.
Single-Building Capture, Storage & Repurposing
One approach involves installing carbon capture systems directly on-site at large buildings, particularly those with high energy demands such as commercial or residential high-rises. These systems can capture CO2 emissions from the building’s heating, ventilation and air conditioning (HVAC) systems or other sources and then store or repurpose the captured CO2.
District Capture, Storage & Repurposing
Another potential application of carbon capture in NYC buildings is district energy systems. These systems utilize a network of underground pipes to deliver heating and cooling from a central plant to multiple buildings. By integrating carbon capture technology into these district energy systems, the emissions from heating and cooling processes can be captured centrally before reaching individual buildings, helping to reduce the overall carbon footprint of the entire system.
Using Captured CO2
Captured CO2 can also be utilized in various ways. For example, it can be used for enhanced oil recovery, where the captured CO2 is injected into oil reservoirs to increase oil production while simultaneously storing the CO2 underground.
Alternatively, the captured CO2 can be used to produce valuable products such as chemicals, plastics or building materials, providing a financial incentive for implementing carbon capture technology. In Minnesota, Radisson Blu Mall of America, a hotel, has installed a system that captures carbon dioxide, which is eventually used to make soap.
Carbon Capture Challenges
Implementing carbon capture technology in NYC buildings does come with challenges, including the costs of installation and operation, as well as the need for proper infrastructure and regulatory support. However, the potential benefits in terms of emissions reduction and the opportunity to repurpose captured CO2 into valuable products make it an attractive option for the city’s long-term sustainability goals.
New York LL97 Compliance Experts
Latitude Compliance can show you how utilizing carbon capture technology to reduce emissions from your NYC building presents a promising pathway toward achieving the city’s emissions reduction goals. Contact us today to learn more about our process and services, and schedule a free building consultation.
Posted on behalf of Latitude Compliance
