Klaus Lackner, a professor of GeoPhysics at the Columbia University has devised a so-called ‘tree’ that captures carbon at a rate of over 1000 times when compared to an average-sized tree. Lackner has been working on the project since 1998.

Although present carbon-capturing techniques are usually achieved at source, such as in coal-fired power plants, Lackner’s new innovation hopes to capture carbon dioxide that has already been emitted and present in the general atmosphere, such as the emissions from a car.

The carbon capturing ‘tree’ however does not even remotely look like a tree; it is a cylindrical structure and looks like a giant fly-swatter. Needless to say it does not require direct sunlight, water or have leaves, branches and trunk.

The secret behind the working of this wondrous invention is simple: it incorporates a sorbent which acts as a sponge that collects carbon dioxide, cleans and pressurizes the gas and then releases it into the atmosphere.

Each synthetic tree would absorb one ton of carbon dioxide per day which is equivalent to the amount of carbon dioxide released daily by 20 cars.

To realize his dreams, Lackner is using Global Research Technologies, a company based in Arizona, USA to develop working models of the tree. Lackner is also the co-founder and CEO of this enterprise.

The drawback of this marvel is its cost: each unit will cost a whopping $30,000 to manufacture.

 

Lackner is currently pursuing the US Energy Secretary, Stephen Chu and the Department of Energy to push forward the concept and help promote it. He claims that a prototype of the tree will be ready three years from now.