Story of CO2: Big Ideas for a Small Molecule

The Story of CO2 is a vital contribution to the conversation about the climate crisis, highlighting the science and technologies that can transform carbon dioxide into products such as feedstock chemicals, polymers, pharmaceuticals, and fuels. It explores all aspects of carbon dioxide, from the atomic to the universal perspective, and inspires readers with the latest carbon utilization technologies and their role in carbon mitigation strategies.

Format: Hardback
Length: 280 pages
Publication date: 06 November 2020
Publisher: University of Toronto Press

The climate crisis demands a significant reduction in carbon dioxide emissions across various societal sectors. The Story of CO2 plays a crucial role in this important discussion by showcasing cutting-edge science and emerging technologies that have the potential to transform carbon dioxide into a wide range of products, including feedstock chemicals, polymers, pharmaceuticals, and fuels. By adopting this approach, we can reevaluate CO2 as a valuable resource and incorporate carbon capture and utilization into our existing arsenal of tools in combating catastrophic climate change.

The Story of CO2 takes a comprehensive and interdisciplinary approach, covering all aspects of carbon dioxide from the atomic to the universal perspective. It transports readers on an epic journey through our physical world, beginning with the moment of the Big Bang and continuing to the present day, where atmospheric CO2 concentrations continue to rise. This story aims to inspire readers by introducing the latest carbon utilization technologies and explaining their role within the broader context of carbon mitigation strategies in the transition towards a sustainable energy economy.

One of the key themes explored in The Story of CO2 is the potential for carbon dioxide to be used as a feedstock for the production of various chemicals and materials. By converting CO2 into valuable products, we can reduce the atmospheric concentration of this greenhouse gas and mitigate its harmful effects on the environment. The book discusses various carbon utilization technologies, such as direct air capture, carbon capture and storage, and bioenergy with carbon capture. It highlights the advantages and challenges associated with each technology and explores how they can be integrated into existing industrial processes and energy systems.

Another important aspect of The Story of CO2 is its exploration of carbon capture and utilization as a means of mitigating climate change. Carbon capture involves capturing CO2 emissions from power plants, industrial processes, or other sources and storing them underground or in other long-term storage facilities. Utilization, on the other hand, involves converting captured CO2 into valuable products, such as chemicals, fuels, or materials. The book discusses the economic and environmental benefits of carbon capture and utilization, as well as the challenges and barriers to its widespread adoption.

In addition to its technical aspects, The Story of CO2 also emphasizes the importance of public awareness and education about the climate crisis and the role of carbon utilization technologies in addressing it. The book provides a comprehensive overview of the scientific and policy challenges associated with climate change, and it encourages readers to become actively engaged in the fight against it. It also highlights the role of individual actions and lifestyle choices in reducing carbon emissions and promoting sustainable practices.

Overall, The Story of CO2 is a valuable resource for anyone interested in understanding the potential of carbon dioxide as a resource and in exploring the technologies and strategies that can be used to mitigate climate change. By adopting a comprehensive and interdisciplinary approach, the book provides readers with a deeper understanding of the challenges and opportunities associated with carbon utilization and inspires them to take action in promoting a sustainable future.

Weight: 596g
Dimension: 161 x 236 x 28 (mm)
ISBN-13: 9781487506360