A comparison of greenhouse gas mitigation options

The mitigation of atmospheric greenhouse gas emissions is important for minimizing the anthropogenic contributions to climate change. These concerns have led to the investigation of many technologies and strategies for mitigation, both in the U.S. and abroad. One technology explored at ANL is integrated gasification combined cycle (IGCC) power generation, which is based on extraction of CO2 by a solvent. The IGCC process reduces CO2 production through efficient fuel use, which makes CO2 recovery less expensive than conventional systems. Recovery using the following solvents was explored in detail: monoethanolamine (MEA), glycol, chilled methanol, and hot potassium carbonate. Other incentive-based options for mitigation have also been explored, including market incentives (carbon fees and tradable permits) and regulatory measures. Our work suggests a complex global strategy will be necessary to optimize options for mitigation of global climate change, one that takes into account both local and regional considerations.