Germany is planning a network of pipelines to transport captured CO2 to the North Sea for permanent storage, a move that could also benefit Switzerland in its efforts to achieve carbon neutrality.

Both Switzerland and Germany aim to reach net-zero greenhouse gas emissions by 2050. However, eliminating an estimated 7 to 12 million tons of CO2 per year from Switzerland and 50 to 60 million tons from Germany remains a challenge.

Carbon capture and storage (CCS) technology is seen as a crucial solution. Captured CO2 can be either utilized in new products or injected deep underground, preventing its release into the atmosphere.

In Switzerland, projects like DemoUpCARMA, funded by the government, are exploring CO2 transport by train and ship to Iceland for permanent storage through natural rock formations.

Germany's plan involves a pipeline network that could extend to Basel, Switzerland, to collect and transport captured CO2. Discussions between German suppliers and Swiss authorities are already underway.

The EU's green light for CCS has spurred momentum for concrete projects. Industries like lime production, which generates significant CO2 emissions as a byproduct, are eager for CCS solutions.