Shallow Geologic Storage of Carbon to Remove Atmospheric CO₂ and Reduce Flood Risk

Area of Science:

• Geological Engineering
• Environmental Science
• Climate Change Mitigation

Background:

• Conventional geologic carbon storage involves deep injection of CO2.
• Existing methods face limitations in depth and scalability.
• Alternative carbon sequestration strategies are needed.

Purpose of the Study:

• To explore the feasibility of shallow geologic storage of carbon using wood particles.
• To assess the potential for carbon sequestration and ground elevation.
• To evaluate the climate change mitigation and adaptation benefits of this novel approach.

Main Methods:

• Milling wood into particles for injection as a slurry.
• Conducting a field experiment to demonstrate shallow geologic storage.
• Measuring CO2 storage and ground surface uplift rates.

Main Results:

• Demonstrated the technical feasibility of shallow geologic storage of carbon via wood particle injection.
• Observed significant ground surface elevation due to the injection process.
• Life-cycle assessment indicated minimal CO2 emissions relative to stored carbon.

Conclusions:

• Shallow geologic storage of carbon using wood particles is a viable technique.
• This method offers dual benefits for climate change mitigation and flood risk adaptation.
• The process is scalable and has a favorable environmental impact.