Beijing Hosts Major Inauguration for Global CCUS Innovation Initiative
Beijing Hosts Major Inauguration for CCUS Innovation
On July 11, 2025, Beijing was the site of a pivotal event in climate action—the inauguration of the International Carbon Capture, Utilization and Storage Technology Innovation Organization (ICTO). This new alliance aims to lead the charge in CCUS (Carbon Capture, Utilization, and Storage) technologies, gathering over 50 prominent global leaders from industry, research institutes, and academic circles.
The main objective of the ICTO is to foster global collaboration and innovation in CCUS methodologies, effectively paving a sustainable path for humanity in combating climate change. Under the rallying call of "Innovating For Carbon Pathway, Sharing The Future", the organization aims to create a credible global network that drives meaningful technological advancements in carbon reduction efforts.
Attending the inaugural ceremony were more than 90 representatives spanning 12 countries from various continents. Among the highlights was the approval of the organization’s charter and the establishment of a governing body comprising a director, deputy director, and a secretary-general. Ma Yongsheng, an academician of the Chinese Academy of Engineering and the president of Sinopec, was appointed as the inaugural director of the assembly. His leadership reflects China's commitment to spearheading CCUS efforts on a global scale.
Ma Yongsheng emphasized that the formation of ICTO is a symbol of the global community's unwavering commitment to addressing climate change. "This initiative not only represents a strong determination but also a collective action plan. We are dedicated to engaging stakeholders in deep discussions and practical collaborations which will enhance carbon capture technologies and contribute significantly to attaining global net zero goals," he stated.
The urgency of combating climate change has gained traction worldwide, with 151 nations setting climate objectives, including aspirations for carbon neutrality and net-zero emissions. CCUS technology possesses a tremendous potential to significantly reduce emissions, estimated to account for around 15% of the cumulative reductions necessary to achieve these climate targets. To realize this potential, the capacity of CCUS projects must be scaled up by over 100 times by 2050.
Sinopec has been at the forefront of the CCUS industry in China, launching its first carbon capture initiative in the Shengli Oilfield back in 2012. It further solidified its leadership by incorporating CO₂ resource management into all its operations in 2015. In 2022, Sinopec celebrated a milestone with the commencement of its first CCUS project at a megaton scale, and in 2023, it completed China's first long-distance CO₂ transportation pipeline. Both achievements showcase Sinopec’s commitment to leading the charge in carbon capture technology and supporting global climate efforts.
Overall, the inauguration of the ICTO in Beijing marks a significant turning point in international climate action, emphasizing innovation and cooperation in CCUS technology as vital components for a sustainable future. The collective actions of these leaders signify hopes for substantial advancements in carbon emissions reduction and the realization of a harmonious relationship between industrial processes and environmental preservation.
The headway made by ICTO and its members serves as a reminder of the collaborative spirit necessary to combat the existential threat posed by climate change and the urgent need for innovative solutions to preserve our planet for future generations.