Decarbonization

This chapter describes the pathways to convert emitted (or otherwise wasted) CO₂ into more valuable products or chemical feedstock (CU) as means for adding value or creating revenues through CO₂ utilization, which might contribute to attaining economic sustainability while solving energy and environmental issues. Emphasis is given on the need of implementing R&D processes for the conversion of CO₂ (using low-carbon energy sources) to warrant a green future. Thus, inorganic as well as organic valorization routes are described, together with other more aspirational and inspirational routes, such as artificial photosynthesis, keeping in mind that CO₂ abatement cannot rely on natural photosynthesis as the unique process to reduce CO₂ concentration in the atmosphere. Process conditions, economic and energy limitations, or incentives are also incorporated in the discussion. The issues faced and addressed by the end-users and the challenges of marketing the end-products are included in a separate section. Another section of the chapter introduces the net-zero initiative, approaches, and pathways to the 1.5 °C goal, to finally reach a section dealing with the potential of the different sources of energy, as well as with the decarbonization ambitious targets.