Abstract: The present invention relates to a process for reducing in a gas stream the concentration of carbon dioxide and for reducing in an aqueous stream the concentration of sodium chloride, which process comprises contacting a feed gas comprising greater than or equal to 0.1% by volume carbon dioxide with an aqueous feed comprising: (a) sodium chloride; and (b) calcium oxide and/or calcium hydroxide at a total concentration of greater than or equal to 0.5% by weight, wherein the pH of the aqueous feed is greater than or equal to 10.0. A product aqueous stream obtained from the process of the invention is also described.

Abstract: A system for contacting gases and liquids includes a vessel containing inert particles, wherein the total volume of the inert particles is from 1 to 20% of the total working volume of the vessel.