CO2 Emissions

CO2 - The Definition

Although it has no taste, smell or colour Carbon dioxide gas (CO2) is blamed for increases in greenhouse gases linked to global warming. Some individuals make the claim that CO2 is a natural gas and the process of increased greenhouse gases is the result of a fundamental chain of nature. Others point to increases in CO2 in industrial plants where fossil fuels are incinerated or used in chemical processes like refrigerants for cooling systems, dry cleaning and even, carbonated beverages. CO2 gases can be liquefied or in solid form. When CO2 absorbs heat, it is transformed directly into a gas such as dry ice.

CO2 - Its Origins

Carbon dioxide is the result of slow oxidation (decay) of all organic materials that produce this gaseous material. It originates from four sources: gas wells, combustion of carbonaceous fuels and fermentation as well as by-product of chemical processing such as plastics, rubber and thermoplastic materials. CO2 emissions increase in volume with the increase in industrial products as a result. For example, most CO2 is obtained as a by-product of steam-hydrocarbon reformers used in production of gasoline, ammonia and in fermentation processes.

CO2 Emissions

Controlling excessive CO2 emissions has been the jurisdiction of environmental agencies who require specific reporting of the volume of CO2 emissions into the atmosphere. In some countries, environmental permits that allow a certain volume of CO2 emissions are also a requirement. These permits are produced annually and reviewed by environmental commissions charged with the duties of oversight. One result of environmental compliance regulations has been emission "credits" . Environmental credits occur when a large company produces less than their limit of emissions. They are allowed to sell their unused credits to smaller companies. This saves smaller companies from having to install expensive environmental pollution controls for their process equipment. This is a particularly popular program for large and small industrial plants. The concept is under study on a global basis.

Controlling Excessive CO2 Emissions

In order to adequately control excessive CO2 emissions to the end that it will reduce greenhouse gases and prevent further destruction of the ozone layer as a result, a global mission has been actively creating international agreements to reduce industrial reliance on fossil fuels like coal and oil. Scientists working for these industries are developing processes that will allow for cleaner burning of fossil fuels in an effort to decrease CO2 emissions and reduce greenhouse gases.