Geological sequestration

Definition

Geological sequestration is a process that involves the capture and storage of carbon dioxide (CO2) emissions underground in geological formations. This method is crucial in reducing greenhouse gas concentrations in the atmosphere, as it allows for the safe long-term storage of CO2, preventing its release into the environment. By utilizing natural formations like depleted oil and gas fields or deep saline aquifers, geological sequestration aims to mitigate climate change by effectively managing carbon emissions from industrial sources.

5 Must Know Facts For Your Next Test

1. Geological sequestration can store CO2 at depths greater than 800 meters, where it is subjected to high pressure and temperature, making it stable in its liquid state.
2. The process involves three main steps: capturing CO2 from industrial sources, transporting it to a storage site, and injecting it into geological formations.
3. Successful geological sequestration projects have demonstrated the ability to store millions of tons of CO2 safely over extended periods, showing promise for large-scale implementation.
4. Monitoring and verification are essential components of geological sequestration to ensure that stored CO2 does not leak back into the atmosphere.
5. Geological sequestration can play a significant role in achieving net-zero emissions targets by offsetting emissions from hard-to-abate sectors like cement and steel production.

Review Questions

• How does geological sequestration contribute to climate change mitigation efforts?
  • Geological sequestration contributes to climate change mitigation by capturing CO2 emissions from industrial processes before they can enter the atmosphere. By storing these emissions deep underground in geological formations, this technology effectively reduces the overall concentration of greenhouse gases. This is particularly important for industries that produce large amounts of CO2, as it provides a way to continue operating while minimizing their environmental impact.
• What are some potential risks associated with geological sequestration, and how can they be managed?
  • Potential risks associated with geological sequestration include leakage of stored CO2 back into the atmosphere and induced seismicity due to injection pressure. To manage these risks, comprehensive monitoring systems are implemented to detect any movement of CO2 or pressure changes in surrounding geological formations. Additionally, thorough site assessments prior to injection ensure that selected storage sites have suitable characteristics to contain CO2 safely over the long term.
• Evaluate the role of geological sequestration in achieving global net-zero emissions targets, considering its advantages and limitations.
  • Geological sequestration plays a pivotal role in achieving global net-zero emissions targets by providing a means to reduce atmospheric CO2 levels while allowing for continued fossil fuel use in critical sectors. Its advantages include the ability to store vast quantities of CO2 and support economic growth by enabling industries to transition more gradually. However, limitations such as high costs, regulatory challenges, and public acceptance issues can hinder widespread adoption. A balanced approach incorporating renewable energy and energy efficiency alongside geological sequestration is essential for effective climate action.

Related terms

Carbon Capture and Storage (CCS): A technology that captures CO2 emissions produced from the use of fossil fuels in electricity generation and stores it underground to prevent it from entering the atmosphere.

Saline Aquifers: Underground layers of water-bearing rock that contain salty water, which can be utilized for geological sequestration of CO2 due to their capacity to store large volumes of gas.

Depleted Oil Fields: Oil reservoirs that have been fully exploited and are no longer producing oil, making them suitable candidates for storing CO2 as they can safely contain the gas.