Author(s): Wei Hao Loh; Jia Wang; Azhar Ismail; Hwee Sin; Yan Gu And Gurdev Singh
Linked Author(s):
Keywords: Carbon capture CCUS CDR decarbonisation economic cost net zero emissions TRL
Abstract: Climate change represents one of the most pressing global challenges, with escalating environmental, economic, and social impacts. Effective mitigation strategies are crucial to limit global temperature rise and minimize the adverse effects of climate change. In line with national goals, PUB targets to achieve net zero emissions by around 2045 and is embarking on a 3R decarbonisation strategy to i) ‘Reduce’ energy consumption, ii) ‘Replace’ grid-based electricity with renewable energy and iii) ‘Remove’ carbon dioxide (CO2). PUB, Singapore’s National Water Agency, has therefore been actively developing cost-effective carbon dioxide removal (CDR) technologies to address carbon emissions that integrates synergistically with PUB’s existing operations. Biogas carbon capture utilisation and storage (CCUS) is attractive to PUB as net negative emissions measure given the biogenic nature of biogas. There are several options to capture the concentrated point-sources (about 35% at the feed of the biogas engine and 8-9% at the exhaust of the biogas engine), from more mature liquid-based amine scrubbing carbon capture (CC) technology to utilising state-of-the-art adsorbent materials such as Metal/Covalent Organic Framework (MOF/COF) that has the potential to lower footprint and energy costs. Carbon storage encompasses diverse pathways, each contributing to mitigating atmospheric CO2 levels. Mineralization involves converting CO2 into stable carbonates through chemical reactions with minerals, providing long-term sequestration. Ocean storage leverages the vast capacity of deep ocean layers to dissolve and retain CO2 under high pressure. Biological storage enhances natural carbon sinks through methods like afforestation, soil carbon sequestration, or biochar application. Additionally, utilization pathways, such as producing sustainable aviation fuel (SAF) or incorporating CO2 into products like carbonated beverages, create value-added applications while reducing reliance on virgin carbon resources. Together, these approaches integrate environmental benefits with economic opportunities. This abstract offers a summary of the recent developments of carbon removal technologies that are potentially suitable for adoption in the wastewater treatment sector for capturing, utilising, and/or storing carbon dioxide from the biogas generated, in an effort towards building a sustainable, low-carbon future for water utilities.
Year: 2025