Bioenergy with carbon capture and storage: The negative emission concept

The combination of bioenergy with carbon capture and storage (BECCS) can, in theory, produce heat, electricity or hydrogen with net negative emissions to the atmosphere. Recent modelling studies indicate that BECCS may be a crucial mitigation option if greenhouse-gas (GHG) concentrations are to be stabilised at low levels (lower than 450 parts per million [ppm] CO₂). BECCS is currently at the demonstration stage, but its large-scale development raises a number of issues. The potentials of large-scale bioenergy production and large-scale CCS remain controversial, and the sustainability of basic biomass sources is a major concern. Strict standards governing the reporting and accounting of negative emissions are needed to reinforce policies encouraging BECCS development.