A dynamic and functional based reclassification review of carbon dioxide mitigation strategies

Although the decarbonization challenge consists of a macro-scale system dynamics problem, the majority of classifications and environmental analyses proposed in literature are usually focused on a single process-scale technology from a steady-state perspective, offering poor insights about the protracted impact of process and energy plants retrofitting over time. Since CO 2 decumulation in the atmosphere is the outcome of both replacement and removal strategies, innovative long-term criteria could lead to a more effective classification and provide a more direct correlation between the selected strategy and the competitive operations. In this review article, the effectiveness and the sequestration time of the most established CO 2 removal strategies are analyzed and quantified in detail with the purpose of reclassifying them according to carbon dioxide release delay and removal efficiency and to distinguish whether energy, chemical or transportation aspects are involved. In particular, the proposed ranking aims at detecting the best performing technologies to be implemented since the early design stage for the targeted application according to their long-term CO 2 removal effectiveness. As a result of this research, the most effective contributions are given by the maximization of carbon-free energy use, bio-based raw materials and by the conversion of carbon dioxide into long-life chemical products. • The decarbonization solutions effectiveness should be assessed based on their dynamics. • Combining optimal production and energy management can lead to negative emission processes. • The sequestration time strongly affects the technological strategy sustainability. • A response function inspired classification for CO 2 removal strategies is proposed. • The introduced « θ Δ u » diagram can be updated along with the discovery of new technologies.