Global Collaboration on CCUS Takes Center Stage at International Conference

On September 4, 2026, a pivotal moment in low-carbon energy development was marked with the announcement of a groundbreaking initiative led by China Petroleum & Chemical Corporation, commonly referred to as Sinopec. This initiative was unveiled during the 2026 International CCUS Technology Conference held in Astana, Kazakhstan, where representatives from various countries gathered to discuss the pressing need for enhanced cooperation and innovation in Carbon Capture, Utilization, and Storage (CCUS) technologies.

The initiative known as the Initiative for Cooperation on Low-Carbon Energy Development aims to strengthen collaboration between countries and organizations in the field of CCUS. Sinopec, alongside the Ministry of Energy of the Republic of Kazakhstan and the Institute of New Materials and Energy Technologies at Nazarbayev University, emphasized the need for closer ties in developing CCUS technologies and standards. This collaborative effort is crucial as the world approaches a critical phase in global climate action, with CCUS technology being a key enabler in addressing emissions reductions.

The conference saw participation from over 230 attendees, including industry experts, government officials, and international organizations from regions including China, Kazakhstan, the United States, the United Kingdom, and Canada. Discussions revolved around various pivotal topics such as carbon dioxide capture, geological storage solutions, CO2 mineralization, and the development of CCUS hubs. Key insights were shared on the necessary business models, policy frameworks, and international partnerships essential for the successful implementation of CCUS initiatives on a larger scale.

Tian Hongbin, the vice president of Sinopec Group, highlighted the importance of this initiative, stating that the time for decisive action in combating climate change is upon us. He reaffirmed Sinopec's commitment to fostering international cooperation through the establishment of the International CCUS Technology Innovation Cooperation Organization (ICTO), which was founded to facilitate knowledge exchange and promote expertise in CCUS across the globe.

Sinopec has already showcased its leadership in the CCUS landscape by successfully constructing China's first-ever 100-kilometer dense-phase CO2 pipeline. Additionally, the company has initiated an integrated CCUS demonstration project capable of capturing one million metric tons of CO2 annually. Currently, Sinopec is working collaboratively with major industry players such as Shell, BASF, and China Baowu to develop China's first open-access CCUS cluster, aimed at achieving a significant scale of 10 million metric tons of CO2.

Moreover, Sinopec is also investing in the Shengli Oilfield, where preparations are underway for a demonstration project targeting lower-concentration CO2 sources. This multifaceted approach underscores Sinopec's holistic view toward achieving emissions reductions, including enhanced oil recovery strategies, CO2 capture from diverse sources, and effective storage methodologies.

Since its establishment in July 2025, ICTO has expanded rapidly, now encompassing 60 founding members, including companies, research institutions, and experts across more than 20 countries. Sinopec remains dedicated to leveraging its engineering experience while collaborating with ICTO members, with the shared aim of advancing the development and application of innovative CCUS technologies.

As the world grapples with the challenges posed by climate change, initiatives like that of Sinopec and its partners emphasize the critical role of international cooperation in advancing low-carbon technologies. The outcomes of such collaborations will not only contribute to industrial advancement but will also provide the necessary frameworks to ensure a sustainable future for generations to come.