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NATURAL ALLIES: LEVERAGING BIOLOGICAL SYSTEMS FOR CLIMATE CHANGE MITIGATION THROUGH CO2 REMOVAL

Authors: Amr Elkelish

Received August 30, 2024

Accepted for publication December 15, 2024

Published December 30, 2024. Volume 2:2 Pages 112—125

Checked for plagiarism Yes

Peer reviewer comments 2

Correspondence: amr.elkelish@science.suez.edu.eg

Abstract

This review paper delves into the diverse biological strategies for carbon dioxide removal (BCDR), highlighting their potential to mitigate climate change effectively. Biological systems, ranging from vast forests to microscopic algae, are crucial in capturing atmospheric CO₂ and sequestering it within organic matter or through conversion into bioenergy. The paper begins by discussing the increasing urgency of addressing historical CO₂ accumulations and the complementary role of BCDR to traditional decarbonization efforts. It then explores various biological mechanisms such as photosynthesis and the Calvin-Benson-Bassham cycle, which plants, algae, and microorganisms utilize to convert CO₂ into biomass, thereby contributing to long-term carbon storage. Further sections analyze the role of innovative biological technologies, including genetically engineered microorganisms and hyperaccumulators, in enhancing carbon capture efficiency. The review also addresses the advantages and limitations of these biological strategies, comparing them with mechanical carbon capture technologies. Case studies of successful BCDR projects illustrate the practical implementation and challenges of scaling these approaches. The review concluded that, concerning future directions and policy implications, there is a crucial need for integrated strategies incorporating biological and chemo-physical techniques to mitigate climate change and achieve sustainable carbon reduction. Through a comprehensive analysis of existing and emerging BCDR techniques, this review underscores the importance of biological approaches in the global effort to combat climate change, offering insights into their potential scalability, economic feasibility, and ecological impact. The key finding of the review is that integrating biological carbon dioxide removal (BCDR) strategies with chemo-physical techniques offers a scalable, cost-effective, and sustainable approach to mitigating climate change.