Saudi Arabia is set to bolster its carbon capture and storage (CCS) efforts by joining the Global Carbon Capture and Storage Institute (GCCSI), demonstrating the Kingdom's commitment to addressing climate challenges through innovation and collaboration.
The Ministry of Energy's announcement marks a significant milestone in Saudi Arabia's approach to diversifying its strategies for environmental protection and fulfilling its pledge to reduce carbon emissions by over 278 metric tons per year by 2030. According to Khalid Abuleif, Chief Climate Negotiator at the Ministry of Energy, achieving these ambitious targets requires adopting a more comprehensive and balanced approach, known as the circular carbon economy.
The circular carbon economy is a multifaceted framework that prioritizes various aspects, with carbon storage technology playing a pivotal role. Joining GCCSI and partnering with international organizations will play a crucial role in making this technology a reality in the near term, Abuleif emphasized.
Energy Minister Prince Abdulaziz bin Salman highlighted the importance of CCS technologies in addressing emissions from heavy industries, which can be challenging to reduce. He revealed the Kingdom's plans to develop one of the world's largest carbon capture and storage centers, aimed at capturing approximately 44 million tons of carbon dioxide annually by 2035 in Jubail Industrial City.
Prince Abdulaziz recognized the significance of building partnerships, expertise, and specialized knowledge to implement ambitious climate projects effectively. The membership in the Global Carbon Capture and Storage Institute is expected to play a pivotal role in achieving these goals.
GCCSI CEO Jarad Daniels commended Saudi Arabia's commitment to global climate mitigation objectives and the collective efforts of nations working together to deploy CCS technologies at scale. He expressed excitement about Saudi Arabia's membership, which aligns with the Kingdom's position as a leader in the region's environmental initiatives.
Saudi Arabia's commitment to enhancing its CCS sector through global collaboration signifies a significant step toward addressing climate change and promoting sustainable practices within the Kingdom.