The Cape Coast Technical University (CCTU), in collaboration with the University of Regina (UR), Canada, and Entropy Incorporated, hosted a Public Lecture on Carbon Capture, Utilisation and Storage (CCUS) and Net-Zero Pathways on Tuesday, July 21, 2026, at the University’s Building Auditorium. The event brought together academic staff, students, and visiting experts to explore innovative carbon capture technologies and sustainable strategies for achieving net-zero emissions.

The keynote lecture was delivered by Prof. Raphael Idem of the Department of Industrial Systems Engineering at the University of Regina, Canada, on the theme "Carbon Capture, Utilisation and Storage (CCUS) and Net-Zero Emissions."

In the lecture, Prof. Idem emphasised that achieving global net-zero targets would depend significantly on the advancement and deployment of Carbon Capture, Utilisation and Storage (CCUS) technologies. He explained that extensive research was underway to make CCUS more efficient, affordable, and scalable, particularly for carbon-intensive industries.

According to him, carbon capture not only supported climate action but also presented significant opportunities for innovation and economic growth through the development of value-added products and new industrial applications.

Prof. Idem highlighted recent advancements in solvent-based and solid sorbent technologies, as well as research into ionic liquids and other novel materials aimed at reducing the energy required for carbon dioxide (CO₂) capture. Beyond geological storage, he noted that researchers were increasingly focusing on carbon utilisation by converting captured CO₂ into polymers, fuels, and industrial chemicals, thereby creating economic value while reducing greenhouse gas emissions.

Speaking on pathways to net-zero emissions, Prof. Idem observed that industries could substantially reduce their carbon footprints through a combination of proven and emerging technologies. These included improving energy efficiency, electrification powered by renewable energy, carbon capture and utilisation, transitioning to green hydrogen, and adopting circular economy practices that promoted efficient resource use and waste reduction.

He further explained that integrating energy efficiency measures, electrification, carbon capture technologies, and circular economy principles could enable sectors such as steel, cement, and chemical manufacturing to significantly reduce emissions while maintaining productivity. He added that digital monitoring systems and systems engineering could further optimise industrial processes and energy use. With the appropriate policy support and strategic investment, he said, industrial net-zero ambitions could be transformed into tangible outcomes that enhanced both climate action and economic competitiveness.

Earlier in the day, Prof. Raphael paid a courtesy call on the Management of Cape Coast Technical University at the Council Chamber. The visit culminated in the signing of a Memorandum of Understanding (MoU), marking a significant milestone in strengthening academic collaboration, research, and institutional partnership between the two Universities.

The Public Lecture was attended by Prof. Stephen Agyefi-Mensah, Head of the Department of Environmental Management and Technology; Engr. Prof. Emmanuel K. Bamfo Agyei, the Dean of School of Graduate Studies; Prof. Ben Ebo Attom, Dean of International Programmes and Institutional Linkages; Dr. Wilson Sarkodie, Lecturer in Renewable Energy Technology; Engr. Prof. Benjamin B. Akomah, Programmes Coordinator,  School of Built and Natural Environment; other members of staff, students, and invited guests.

Delivering the closing remarks, Prof. Stephen Agyefi-Mensah commended the organisers and facilitators for an insightful and thought-provoking lecture. He expressed appreciation to the University of Regina and Entropy Incorporated for their collaboration and encouraged participants to apply the knowledge gained to advance sustainable environmental practices and contribute meaningfully to global efforts toward achieving net-zero emissions.

The lecture concluded with an engaging question-and-answer session, during which participants interacted with the speaker on various aspects of carbon capture technologies, industrial decarbonisation, and the future of sustainable energy systems. Photographs were taken to commemorate the successful collaboration between Cape Coast Technical University, the University of Regina, and Entropy Incorporated.

Source: Directorate of Public Affairs, CCTU
Date: July 27, 2026