PNNL

Abstract

Rising atmospheric carbon concentrations affect global health, the economy and overall quality of life. We are fast approaching global climate tipping points that must be addressed by not only reducing emissions but also through new innovation and action toward carbon capture for sequestration and utilization (CCSU). In essence, we must supplement natural biogeochemical carbon sinks with new engineering solutions. We believe that an important part of this path will be realized through environmental biotechnologies that interface with plant, soil, deep subsurface and marine ecosystems. Hence, the aim of this perspective is to delineate next generation biotechnologies for CCSU that are based on engineering design principles derived from natural ecological processes and in some cases, tap into the carbon sink potential of nature.