Potential Impacts of Leaks from Onshore CO₂ Storage Projects on Terrestrial Ecosystems

Publication Overview

The aim of this study was to assess the extent of information currently available on the effects of CO₂ seepage on on-shore ecosystems. The objective of the study was to assess what gaps in knowledge exist and what further research needs to be commissioned to address these gaps. The need for this study was first identified by the International Research Network on Risk Assessment in 2005 (for further information, please see www.co2captureandstorage.info). The study was aimed to complement a broader study that was underway that assessed the current Environmental Impact Assessment (EIA) and Strategic Environmental Impact Assessment frameworks for use with CCS . One of the gaps identified by this study was the need for further research on the environmental impacts of CO₂ on on-shore environments.

Publication Summary

The study has highlighted a key knowledge gap for CCS that needs to be addressed. The seepage of CO₂ to the surface is a major concern with both environmental NGO’s and regulatory bodies and the CCS community needs to be in a position to suggest what the impacts of any seepage might be. This piece of work has demonstrated that we are not yet in a position to do so and that current/planned research will not fully address the technical issues identified in this study. A further intensive programme of directed research on ecosystem impacts therefore needs to undertaken in the near future.