Abstract

Using GIS to Advance Geological Carbon Sequestration
Track: Mining and Geosciences
Authors: James Myers, Robert Kirkwood

Geological carbon sequestration (GCS) may provide a means of using the world's coal resources while reducing its carbon footprint. Accordingly, the U.S.EPA has created a new well class (Class VI) in its UIC program for the injection of CO2 for sequestration purposes. Preparation of a sequestration well permit requires compiling a large amount of information about any potential sequestration site, e.g. borehole location, well construction, etc., from a variety of sources. Given the spatial nature of these data, GIS are ideally suited for compiling, managing, and storing the requisite data. Using a relational geodatabase, site basemaps can be created and leakage risk assessment performed. GPS equipment and tools provide a means to verify spatial locations. After permitting, GIS provides a means of managing monitor and verification data while tracking operational data. Given the projected durations of GCS projects (multiple decades), GI systems ensure data continuity despite turnover in project personnel.