The Feasibility of a Carbon-sucking Machine

http://www.npr.org/2011/09/19/140513014/this-machine-can-suck-carbon-out-of-the-air

I have chosen to cover an innovation of University of Calgary’s professor David Keith. Keith and his company, Carbon Engineering, have invented a machine that actually sucks carbon out of the air. National Public Radio recently shed light on Keith and his invention: its origins, its role in green technology, and its feasibility.

David Keith’s unnamed carbon-sucking machine has its basis in long-existing technology. The machine addresses the problem of carbon dioxide, released from things like fossil fuels in combustion engines, polluting our air. Essentially, the machine begins with a solution that reacts with and solidifies carbon dioxide. Carbon solids are then put in a kiln, where they can be captured in their pure form and used in other ways. The ashes of the carbons can regenerate the original solution. Carbon Engineering asserts that this machine is far more feasible and affordable than they initially expected. Keith has received funding from Bill Gates, and he is testing to see on what scale he can operate the machine.

If feasible on a grander scale, this is an effective form of action to reduce the amount of CO2 in the air. But the use of this machine alone does not solve the problem of air quality. Innovations like this one must be coupled with stricter regulation of fuel economy and conservation by individuals (using bikes and public transportation, car-pooling, etc). Especially in urban areas, where air pollution is concentrated, multi-faceted solutions to air pollution are critical. This action comes from a crucial actor in the environmental policy field -- the scientific community. This machine is replicable, especially given that David Keith has connections to the business world. As scientific research becomes victim to congressional budget cuts, striking deals with the business community is an important key to making sure this machine is replicable. David Keith’s innovation gives me a sense of hope; it is encouraging to know that this kind of research is being done.