Page 43 - Sigmaroc Annual-Report 2023

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Mega trend: Environmental protection
ENVIRONMENTAL PROTECTION
The mega trend of environmental protection in Europe is gaining momentum, with innovative applications emerging to safeguard crucial ecosystems and combat pollution. Efforts such as ocean and lake liming are being explored to restore acidity balance and promote marine biodiversity. Additionally, initiatives like Air Pollution Control Residues cleaning tackle industrial waste, ensuring cleaner air and waterways. Shipping emissions, a significant contributor to pollution, are being addressed through regulations and advancements in green technology. Moreover, the concept of direct air capture is gaining traction, offering a promising solution to remove carbon dioxide from the atmosphere. As Europe prioritises environmental stewardship, these diverse approaches underscore the region's commitment to preserving natural resources and mitigating the impacts of climate change.
HOW WE ARE RESPONDING
In ocean and lake liming, limestone is used to neutralise acidity and restore pH balance, thereby enhancing water quality and fostering the growth of aquatic life. Air Pollution Control Residues cleaning often involves the use of lime to treat industrial waste, neutralising harmful pollutants and reducing environmental impact. Lime is also employed in shipping emissions control, where
it serves as an absorbent for sulphur dioxide emissions, mitigating air pollution from maritime activities. Furthermore, in the emerging field of direct air capture, lime-based sorbents are being explored as a means of capturing carbon dioxide from the atmosphere, aiding in climate change mitigation efforts.
KEY STATISTICS
€130b
General government expenditure in the EU on environmental protection amounted to €130 billion in 2022.
SOURCE: https://ec.europa.eu/
OCEAN LIMING
LAKE LIMING
DIRECT AIR CAPTURE
AIR POLLUTION CONTROL RESIDUES CLEANING
SHIPPING EMISSIONS (FLUE GAS)