CO₂ Fixation That Matters: Which Products Really Help the Climate?

What is it about?

This chapter investigates how carbon dioxide (CO₂) can be reused in industrial products—and which of these uses actually support climate goals. Not all CO₂-based products are created equal: some absorb very little CO₂ or release it quickly, while others can store it securely for years or even decades. The study introduces a simple but powerful two-axis comparison—fixation amount and duration—to evaluate materials like urea, methanol, polycarbonates, and fine chemicals. The work also outlines how CO₂ purity, process energy, and product lifespan determine whether CO₂ utilization is truly climate-relevant.

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Photo by Svetlana Gumerova on Unsplash

Photo by Svetlana Gumerova on Unsplash

Why is it important?

As industries look for ways to reuse captured CO₂, it becomes crucial to focus on solutions that genuinely reduce emissions. This work helps identify the “climate winners” among CO₂-based products by assessing both their carbon storage potential and their environmental persistence. It has become a reference point for evaluating CO₂ utilization technologies, highlighting the importance of polymers and long-lived materials in achieving durable climate benefits. The chapter offers a practical tool for policymakers, researchers, and companies deciding where to direct CO₂ innovation.

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