Carbon capture is the process of capturing carbon dioxide (aka carbon capture, utilization and storage, or “CCUS”) from industrial emissions and storing it so that it cannot enter the atmosphere. It’s a key technology in the fight against climate change. It can help to reduce greenhouse gas emissions and mitigate the effects of global warming, the importance of which is increasingly being recognized by governments and industries around the world.
This global interest in carbon capture means that energy workers who are knowledgeable in this field are in high demand and it’s also a very exciting time to be in the industry. So if you’re hoping to get a US Green Card by filing for an EB-2 NIW or EB-1A, and want to make your application more attractive, building expertise in carbon capture and transitioning into the green energy sector is a good strategy
Here’s how developing skills in carbon capture may help your EB-2 or EB-1A application and how you can build that expertise. Let’s dive in.
Carbon capture is a rapidly growing specialization
More than seventy countries around the world — including the US — have pledged to reach net-zero emissions by 2050, as called for in the Paris Agreement. Carbon capture is viewed as a critical technology for achieving this goal
The US administration has proposed a number of policies to support the development and deployment of carbon capture technologies. This includes an increased tax credit for carbon capture projects, going from $50 to $85 per ton of carbon, and further funding for research and development.
The EU also set a goal of removing five million tons of carbon from the atmosphere annually by 2030 and the UK government is spending over $135 million to support early-stage carbon capture technologies. All this means that the industry is also growing rapidly, in 2021 global investment in carbon capture reached a record high of $1.5 billion.
How to build expertise in carbon capture technology
With a growing demand for energy professionals with specialist knowledge in carbon capture, building expertise is a smart move. There are a number of ways for energy sector professionals to go about this in a way that will also support their green card application.
Get a certification
CCUS training courses are beginning to appear online and in person across the globe. There are a number of organizations that offer accredited certifications in carbon capture, such as The Renewable Institute and the Global CCS Institute. These certifications can help to demonstrate your knowledge of carbon capture technologies and the industry and offer hard proof of your specialist knowledge from a recognizable institution.
Attend conferences and workshops
Staying on top of the latest technologies and developments in carbon capture is an easy way to develop your skills and network within the industry. Attending conferences hosted by organizations such as The Global CCS Summit and Carbon, Capture, Utilization, and Storage (CCUS) can demonstrate your continued expertise in the field.
Pursue additional education
If further study is an option, consider a university programs in carbon capture and related fields. These programs can provide the theoretical and practical knowledge needed to work in the carbon capture industry and demonstrate your expertise.
Work on carbon capture projects
There are a number of companies and organizations that are working on carbon capture projects, and opportunities are available for candidates with a variety of skills and experience. If it’s possible to assist with a carbon capture project in your current position, then adding as much real-life work experience to your resume as possible is advised.
How carbon capture expertise can help with EB-2 NIW / EB-1A applications
For foreign nationals who have demonstrated exceptional ability in their field, the EB-2 NIW and EB-1A Green Card categories are viable options.
To apply for the EB-1A, also known as the extraordinary individual category, the applicant must have garnered substantial recognition in their field, meeting the criteria outlined by USCIS. Individuals working contributions and show evidence that they will continue to work in the area of expertise. This makes it ideal for energy workers who often contribute significantly to emerging technology and research.
To qualify for EB-2 NIW, meaning the labor certification requirements of the EB-2 are waived, the candidate needs to demonstrate that they have an advanced degree or exceptional ability in their field that is of substantial merit and benefit to the United States. Because reducing greenhouse gas emissions is a key focus in the US, with clear benefits for the US, and workers with expertise in green energy are in increasing demand, energy workers who can demonstrate their advanced knowledge and skills are in a good position to apply.
Both EB-2 NIW and EB-1A green card categories require a show of expertise which can be demonstrated in a variety of ways, such as through education, work experience, awards, and publications. In the case of carbon capture, candidates with degrees in relevant fields and significant work experience on carbon capture projects may be well-positioned to qualify for EB-2 NIW or EB-1A Green Cards.
