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Climate Change

Carbon Capture and Storage

4.7 Filled star Filled star Filled star Filled star Half star
Based on 135 ratings
see reviews
Mathieu Lucquiaud, Mark Wilkinson, Erika Palfi, MennatAllah Labib, Daniel Mullen, and Chris Holdsworth

The atmosphere is a shared resource and the amount of greenhouse gases it can absorb is a finite resource. This introductory course to the technology of Carbon Capture and Storage is designed for a wider audience with an interest in energy, sustainability and climate change.

The aim of Carbon Capture and Storage is to achieve

  • Deep reductions in carbon dioxide emissions to the atmosphere
  • Unlock carbon negative solutions to achieve a neutral carbon balance to the atmosphere in the 21st century
Read more

The atmosphere is a shared resource and the amount of greenhouse gases it can absorb is a finite resource. This introductory course to the technology of Carbon Capture and Storage is designed for a wider audience with an interest in energy, sustainability and climate change.

The aim of Carbon Capture and Storage is to achieve

  • Deep reductions in carbon dioxide emissions to the atmosphere
  • Unlock carbon negative solutions to achieve a neutral carbon balance to the atmosphere in the 21st century

Carbon Capture and Storage makes cheap, widely available fossil fuels ‘safe to use’ in the context of the Paris Climate Change agreement of 2015. It prevents their carbon dioxide emissions from entering the atmosphere to store them permanently and safely underground.

The course is taught by a team of leading academics at the University of Edinburgh with decades of experience in this field. It aims to bridge the gap between the forefront of the latest developments in science, engineering, geology, policy and economics, and the wider public.

The aim is to help you understand this technology objectively and why it is so important in our efforts against climate change. We hope the course will make you want to find out more about climate change mitigation options and that you will continue to further educate yourself in this area.

Enroll now

What's inside

Learning objectives

  • How to protect the atmosphere with the technology of carbon capture and storage, often called ccs, from an excess of carbon dioxide
  • The fundamental drivers to make fossil fuels ‘safe to use’ in the context of the paris climate change agreement of 2015
  • Key sectors of the global economy where ccs can contribute to deep reductions in emissions
  • The uniqueness of ccs to complement other low-carbon technologies
  • How ccs can unlock carbon negative solutions, which will need to be used before mid-century
  • The principles of the technologies currently used to stop carbon dioxide from entering the atmosphere,
  • The key elements of geology for permanently, and safely, disposing of carbon dioxide underground
  • The international state of play today
  • The scale of the industry in the 21st century
  • Regardless of your background, the course will teach you the key elements to help you better understand

Syllabus

Block 1 - Climate Drivers
Introduction to the Course
Global Warming
The Carbon Budget of our Atmosphere
Read more

Traffic lights

Read about what's good
what should give you pause
and possible dealbreakers
Compellingly designed for those with an interest in sustainability, energy, and climate change
Taught by notable academics from the University of Edinburgh, bringing decades of expertise
Delves into the dynamics of global warming and the significance of carbon dioxide emissions
Provides a comprehensive overview of carbon dioxide capture and storage across various sectors, explaining its role in emission reduction strategies
Equips learners with an understanding of the fundamentals of carbon dioxide capture technologies, addressing post-combustion capture and pre-combustion capture
Covers crucial aspects of geological carbon storage, including the selection of suitable storage sites, transport mechanisms, and monitoring strategies

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Reviews summary

Comprehensive introduction to carbon capture and storage

According to learners, this course offers a largely positive and comprehensive overview of Carbon Capture and Storage (CCS). Many commend the well-structured content that progresses from climate change basics to detailed technologies and geological storage, making complex topics understandable. The instructors' expertise from the University of Edinburgh is frequently highlighted, providing a balanced and objective view of CCS's potential and challenges. While broadly praised as an excellent foundational course, some students felt certain sections could benefit from more in-depth technical details or additional visual examples, indicating it serves best as a robust introduction rather than an advanced deep dive.
Generally clear, but some desire more dynamic visuals or case studies.
"The visual aids in the lectures were helpful."
"I found myself losing interest at times due to the presentation style, although the information itself is crucial."
"I wish there were more visual examples or animations for the capture processes."
Suitable for a broad audience seeking foundational knowledge.
"It's a good introductory course, but don't expect to become an expert."
"For a general introduction, it hits all the major points... a bit too high-level for me."
"Overall, it's definitely an introductory course, suitable for a broad audience."
Delivers an unbiased and objective understanding of CCS.
"This course is a must-take for anyone serious about climate change mitigation. It provides a balanced and objective view of CCS..."
"It truly helped me understand the objective challenges and opportunities in this field."
"I feel much more informed and confident discussing CCS now, given its balanced approach."
Taught by highly knowledgeable academics from Edinburgh University.
"The instructors were knowledgeable and the lectures were engaging."
"The professors from the University of Edinburgh clearly know their stuff."
"I appreciated the instructors' expertise and their clarity in explaining complex topics."
Provides a thorough and well-structured introduction to CCS.
"This course provided a fantastic overview of Carbon Capture and Storage (CCS). The content was well-structured..."
"A very informative course, especially for someone new to the topic like me. The explanations were clear..."
"It truly helped me understand the objective challenges and opportunities in this field, covering all aspects."

Activities

Be better prepared before your course. Deepen your understanding during and after it. Supplement your coursework and achieve mastery of the topics covered in Climate Change: Carbon Capture and Storage with these activities:
Read 'The Sixth Extinction: An Unnatural History'
This book provides a comprehensive overview of the history of climate change and its potential consequences, which will help you better understand the importance of Carbon Capture and Storage.
View The Sixth Extinction (Tenth Anniversary Edition) on Amazon
Show steps
  • Read chapters 1-3 to understand the current state of climate change
  • Read chapters 4-6 to learn about the history of climate change
  • Read chapters 7-9 to explore the potential consequences of climate change
Review Course Prerequisites
Refreshes your foundational knowledge in energy, sustainability, and climate change, boosting comprehension for this course.
Browse courses on Energy
Show steps
  • Revisit basic principles of energy production and consumption
  • Recall the causes and consequences of climate change
Review key concepts in climate science
Reviewing key concepts in climate science will help you build a strong foundation for understanding Carbon Capture and Storage.
Browse courses on Climate Science
Show steps
  • Identify and explain the greenhouse effect
  • Describe the role of carbon dioxide in climate change
  • Explain the concept of carbon neutrality
Six other activities
Expand to see all activities and additional details
Show all nine activities
Compile a glossary of key terms
Creating a glossary of key terms will help you better understand the terminology used in Carbon Capture and Storage.
Browse courses on Carbon Capture and Storage
Show steps
  • Identify key terms in the course materials
  • Define each term in your own words
  • Organize the terms into a glossary
Mentor other students in the course
Mentoring others will help you solidify your understanding of Carbon Capture and Storage and identify areas where you need further development.
Browse courses on Carbon Capture and Storage
Show steps
  • Identify a student who needs help
  • Provide support and guidance on course material
  • Review their work and provide feedback
Solve practice problems on carbon capture and storage
Solving practice problems will help you apply your knowledge of Carbon Capture and Storage to real-world scenarios.
Browse courses on Carbon Capture and Storage
Show steps
  • Identify practice problems in the course materials
  • Solve the problems using the knowledge you have gained
  • Review your solutions and identify areas for improvement
Volunteer with a local environmental organization
Volunteering will help you connect with others who are passionate about climate change and learn about real-world applications of Carbon Capture and Storage.
Browse courses on Carbon Capture and Storage
Show steps
  • Identify a local environmental organization
  • Contact the organization and inquire about volunteer opportunities
  • Attend volunteer events and participate in activities
Develop a business plan for a carbon capture and storage project
Developing a business plan will help you understand the financial and technical feasibility of Carbon Capture and Storage projects.
Browse courses on Carbon Capture and Storage
Show steps
  • Identify a potential carbon capture and storage site
  • Develop a plan for capturing and storing carbon dioxide
  • Estimate the costs and benefits of the project
  • Write a business plan outlining your findings
Create a blog post or video explaining Carbon Capture and Storage
Creating a blog post or video will help you synthesize your knowledge of Carbon Capture and Storage and share it with a wider audience.
Browse courses on Carbon Capture and Storage
Show steps
  • Choose a topic related to Carbon Capture and Storage
  • Research the topic thoroughly
  • Write a blog post or create a video that explains the topic in a clear and engaging way

Career center

Learners who complete Climate Change: Carbon Capture and Storage will develop knowledge and skills that may be useful to these careers:
Carbon Capture Engineer
Carbon Capture Engineers design, develop, and operate carbon capture systems. This course provides a comprehensive overview of carbon capture technologies, making it an ideal choice for those interested in this field. It covers the principles of carbon capture, the different technologies used, and the challenges and opportunities associated with this technology.
See salaries and explore the career path for Carbon Capture Engineer
Carbon Storage Engineer
Carbon Storage Engineers design, develop, and operate carbon storage systems. This course provides a comprehensive overview of carbon storage technologies, making it an ideal choice for those interested in this field. It covers the principles of carbon storage, the different technologies used, and the challenges and opportunities associated with this technology.
See salaries and explore the career path for Carbon Storage Engineer
Policy Analyst
Policy Analysts research and analyze public policies. They may work in various sectors, such as government, non-profit organizations, and think tanks. This course is perfect for Policy Analysts interested in climate change and energy policy, particularly in carbon capture and storage.
See salaries and explore the career path for Policy Analyst
Climate Scientist
Climate Scientists study the Earth's climate system, including the atmosphere, oceans, and land. This course can be a useful resource for Climate Scientists interested in carbon capture and storage's role in mitigating climate change. They could use the knowledge gained from this course to inform their research and policy recommendations.
See salaries and explore the career path for Climate Scientist
Geologist
Geologists study the Earth's physical structure and history. This course would be useful for Geologists interested in carbon capture and storage. They could work on identifying and characterizing geological formations suitable for storing carbon dioxide. Additionally, they could work on developing new methods for monitoring carbon dioxide storage sites.
See salaries and explore the career path for Geologist
Geophysicist
Geophysicists study the Earth's physical properties and processes. This course could be useful for Geophysicists interested in carbon capture and storage. They could work on developing new methods for imaging and monitoring carbon dioxide storage sites, which will help ensure the safe and effective storage of carbon dioxide underground.
See salaries and explore the career path for Geophysicist
Energy Engineer
Energy Engineers design, develop, and operate energy systems, such as power plants and distribution networks. They may work in various industries, such as utilities, manufacturing, and government. This course can help Energy Engineers understand the role of carbon capture and storage in the transition to a low-carbon energy system. It can also provide them with knowledge of the technologies used to capture and store carbon dioxide.
See salaries and explore the career path for Energy Engineer
Environmental Engineer
Environmental Engineers develop solutions to environmental issues, such as air and water pollution, and climate change. They may work in various industries, such as manufacturing, construction, and government. This course can be useful for Environmental Engineers who want to learn about carbon capture and storage, which is a key technology for reducing greenhouse gas emissions. Furthermore, it can help them understand the geology of carbon storage and the potential environmental impacts of this technology.
See salaries and explore the career path for Environmental Engineer
Science Writer
Science Writers communicate complex scientific information to the public. This course can help Science Writers gain a strong foundation in carbon capture and storage. This will enable them to write engaging and informative articles, blog posts, and other content on the topic.
See salaries and explore the career path for Science Writer
Project Manager
Project Managers plan, execute, and close projects. This course can be useful for Project Managers who are working on carbon capture and storage projects. It can help them understand the technical and policy aspects of these projects, which will enable them to manage them more effectively.
See salaries and explore the career path for Project Manager
Sustainability Manager
Sustainability Managers develop and implement sustainability strategies for organizations. This course can help Sustainability Managers to get a better understanding of carbon capture and storage. This knowledge can help them make informed decisions regarding their organization's carbon footprint and climate change mitigation strategies.
See salaries and explore the career path for Sustainability Manager
Mechanical Engineer
Mechanical Engineers design, develop, and operate mechanical systems, such as engines, turbines, and robots. They may work in various industries, such as manufacturing, automotive, and aerospace. This course could be helpful for Mechanical Engineers interested in designing and developing carbon capture and storage systems. For example, they could work on designing new equipment for capturing carbon dioxide from industrial processes or new systems for transporting and storing carbon dioxide.
See salaries and explore the career path for Mechanical Engineer
Materials Scientist
Materials Scientists research and develop new materials, such as metals, ceramics, and polymers. They may work in various industries, such as aerospace, automotive, and electronics. This course could be helpful for Materials Scientists interested in developing new materials for carbon capture and storage. For example, they could work on developing new membranes for carbon dioxide separation or new materials for carbon dioxide storage.
See salaries and explore the career path for Materials Scientist
Civil Engineer
Civil Engineers design, construct, and maintain infrastructure, such as roads, bridges, and buildings. This course might be helpful for Civil Engineers interested in designing and constructing carbon capture and storage facilities. For example, they could work on designing new pipelines for transporting carbon dioxide or new storage facilities for storing carbon dioxide underground.
See salaries and explore the career path for Civil Engineer
Chemical Engineer
Chemical Engineers develop and design chemical plants, equipment, and processes. While they work with the chemical industry, they also work in other industries, such as food and beverage, aerospace, and manufacturing. This course can help Chemical Engineers gain an understanding of how to reduce carbon emissions and make fossil fuels "safe to use" in the context of the Paris Climate Change agreement of 2015. Learning about geological carbon storage may also prove beneficial. Overall, this course may be useful for Chemical Engineers who want to contribute to reducing climate change.
See salaries and explore the career path for Chemical Engineer

Reading list

We've selected ten books that we think will supplement your learning. Use these to develop background knowledge, enrich your coursework, and gain a deeper understanding of the topics covered in Climate Change: Carbon Capture and Storage.
Cover image
Climate Change 2022 – Impacts, Adaptation and...
Save
This report from the IPCC provides a comprehensive assessment of the potential of carbon capture and storage as a climate mitigation option.
Climate Change 2022 – Impacts, Adaptation and...
Paperback
$$$$
Climate Change 2022 – Impacts, Adaptation and...
Kindle Edition
$$$$
Cover image
The Bridge at the Edge of the World
Save
Provides a comprehensive overview of the science of climate change, including the role of carbon capture and storage in climate change mitigation.
The Bridge at the Edge of the World: Capitalism,...
Kindle Edition
$$
By James Gustave Speth - The Bridge at the Edge of...
Paperback
$$
Cover image
Negative Emissions Technologies and Reliable...
Save
This report from the National Research Council provides a comprehensive assessment of the research needs in the field of carbon dioxide capture and storage.
Negative Emissions Technologies and Reliable...
Paperback
$$$$
Negative Emissions Technologies and Reliable...
Kindle Edition
$$$
Cover image
Sustainable Utilization of Carbon Dioxide
Save
Provides a comprehensive overview of the technologies, applications, and economics of carbon dioxide utilization and storage.
Sustainable Utilization of Carbon Dioxide: From...
Kindle Edition
$$$$
Cover image
The Global Carbon Cycle and Climate Change
Save
Discusses the key issues and prospects for carbon dioxide capture and storage.
The Global Carbon Cycle and Climate Change: Scaling...
Paperback
$$$$
The Global Carbon Cycle and Climate Change: Scaling...
Paperback
$$$$
The Global Carbon Cycle and Climate Change: Scaling...
Kindle Edition
$$$$
The Global Carbon Cycle and Climate Change: Scaling...
Kindle Edition
$$$$
Cover image
Developments and Innovation in Carbon Dioxide (CO2)...
Save
Provides a broad overview of the technology, economics, and policy of carbon capture.
Developments and Innovation in Carbon Dioxide (CO2)...
Hardcover
$$$$
Developments and Innovation in Carbon Dioxide (CO2)...
Kindle Edition
$$$$
Developments and Innovation in Carbon Dioxide (CO2)...
Kindle Edition
$$$$
Cover image
Carbon Capture
Save
Provides a detailed analysis of the technologies, costs, and policy of carbon capture and storage.
Carbon Capture (The MIT Press Essential Knowledge...
Paperback
$$
Carbon Capture (The MIT Press Essential Knowledge...
Kindle Edition
$$
Cover image
Climate-Challenged Society
Save
Provides a critical look at the potential of carbon capture and storage to mitigate climate change.
Climate-Challenged Society
Paperback
$$
Climate-Challenged Society
Kindle Edition
$$
Cover image
Carbon Capture and Storage
Save
Provides a concise overview of the technologies, economics, and policy of carbon capture and storage.
Carbon Capture and Storage: Technologies, Policies,...
Kindle Edition
$$$
Cover image
Climate Change Denial
Save
Provides a lucid argument for the use of carbon capture and storage to mitigate climate change.
Climate Change Denial
Paperback
Check
Climate Change Denial
Kindle Edition
Check

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Course image
Rating
4.7 Filled star Filled star Filled star Filled star Half star
Effort
2 to 3 hours per week for 5 weeks
Level
Introductory
Via
edX
Institution
The University of Edinburgh
Instructors
Mathieu Lucquiaud
Mark Wilkinson
Erika Palfi
MennatAllah Labib
Daniel Mullen
Chris Holdsworth
Language
English
Transcript
English
Traffic lights
Read about what's good
what should give you pause
and possible dealbreakers
Compellingly designed for those with an interest in sustainability, energy, and climate change
Taught by notable academics from the University of Edinburgh, bringing decades of expertise
Delves into the dynamics of global warming and the significance of carbon dioxide emissions
Provides a comprehensive overview of carbon dioxide capture and storage across various sectors, explaining its role in emission reduction strategies
Equips learners with an understanding of the fundamentals of carbon dioxide capture technologies, addressing post-combustion capture and pre-combustion capture
Covers crucial aspects of geological carbon storage, including the selection of suitable storage sites, transport mechanisms, and monitoring strategies
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