Reduced Carbon Storage Estimates Suggest Only a Tenth of Previously Believed Industry Values

In a groundbreaking study led by the International Institute for Applied Systems Analysis (IIASA) and Imperial College London, the safety and practical storage capacity of CO2 in geological formations has been assessed. The research, primarily conducted by European climate research institutes, has revealed a significant difference between technically possible and safe carbon storage.

As of the first quarter, there is over 50 million tons of CO2 capture and storage capacity in operation. However, the study does not support the use of carbon storage as a means to offset current CO2 emissions. Instead, it warns against the potential misuse of carbon storage as a means to continue emitting high levels of CO2 without addressing the root cause of the problem.

The world's safely storable carbon emissions, according to the study published in Nature, is approximately 1.46 trillion tons. This amount is about 10 times smaller than industry estimates that have not considered risks to people and the environment. The study highlights the importance of considering risks associated with carbon storage, such as leaks, earthquakes, groundwater contamination, and proximity to population centers or protected areas.

The researchers in the study consider these risks when analyzing geological formations. Utilizing practical areas for CO2 storage could curb global warming by 0.7C. However, larger engineering and industry estimates of CO2 storage's ability to curb global warming are 5C to 6C or higher, but these projections are based on riskier storage potential.

Joeri Rogelj, co-author of the study and director of research at the Grantham Institute at Imperial College London, states that carbon storage should not be used to offset on-going and avoidable CO2 pollution from fossil electricity production or outdated combustion engines. Instead, carbon storage should be employed to halt and reverse global warming, not to bring the climate back to a safe level. The study suggests that carbon storage should not be considered an unlimited solution for climate change.

The ability to store CO2 could reach about 670 million tons by the end of the decade, according to the International Energy Agency. Capturing and storing CO2 underground has been considered critical by many nations for meeting climate targets and extending the life of fossil fuel infrastructure. However, the study underscores the importance of prioritizing the reduction of CO2 emissions over relying on carbon storage as a primary solution for climate change.

In conclusion, while carbon capture and storage has a role to play in combating climate change, it should not be relied upon as a catch-all solution. The study emphasizes the need for strategic use of carbon storage, coupled with significant efforts to reduce CO2 emissions, to effectively address the climate crisis.

Reduced Carbon Storage Estimates Suggest Only a Tenth of Previously Believed Industry Values