Integrated Strategies for Developing Sustainable Energy Systems: From Carbon Capture to Energy System Optimization - Chapter 1: Introduction to Integrated Sustainability Strategies

This chapter presents a comprehensive approach to sustainable energy systems by integrating carbon capture technologies with energy optimization strategies. Recognizing the urgent need for climate action, it examines how combining these approaches can reduce greenhouse gas emissions while enhancing energy efficiency. Key technologies such as postcombustion, precombustion, and direct air capture are analyzed alongside energy optimization tools driven by artificial intelligence, highlighting their applications in high-energy-demand industries. The chapter underscores the alignment of these strategies with the United Nations sustainable development goals (SDGs), particularly SDG 7 (Affordable and Clean Energy) and SDG 13 (Climate Action). Furthermore, it explores the role of advanced financing mechanisms, regulatory support, and collaborative frameworks among governments, industries, and civil society in overcoming adoption challenges. By fostering transparency, accountability, and innovation, these integrated approaches not only mitigate climate impacts but also contribute to the development of resilient, resource-efficient, and economically viable energy models, paving the way for sustainable industrial and urban transformation.