Introduction

What is carbon dioxide sequestration?

In its broadest sense, sequestration is any means that prevents carbon dioxide from entering the atmosphere. Realistically, this is equivalent to the permanent storage of carbon dioxide, independent of the state of the CO₂ or the location of the storage.  Traditionally, carbon sequestration has referred to the carbon stored in biomass, but the definition has come to include the disposal of carbon dioxide underground or in the ocean, as well. 

source p.17

What is the purpose of carbon sequestration?

The function of carbon sequestration is to prevent excess carbon dioxide released from the burning of fossil fuels from entering the atmosphere.

source: Herzog, Eliasson, Kaarstad p.76

source: Y. Ju Mae 427 Lecture 1 p.6

Why should we be concerned with carbon dioxide in the atmosphere?

Increase levels of carbon dioxide in the atmosphere lead to global warming.  For more on global warming, click here.

Who is involved?

In addition to privatecompanies like StatOil, Burlington Resources, and Ford and BP (sponsors of the Carbon Mitigation Initiative at Princeton University), who have an interest in sequestration, there are numerous government agencies working on sequestration projects and research: DOE, NETL, IEA, LBL, and ORNL.  There are also non-profit organizations like Greenpeace, who have an interest.

When is sequestration going to happen?

There are currently sequestration projects underway right now.  For example, Statoil’s project in the North Sea and Burlington Resources in New Mexico.

Where is carbon sequestered?

There potential storage sites for carbon dioxide all over the world, from the middle of the ocean to the most landlocked region of Asia. 

Note: The above are very general answers.  More detail and specifics can be found for each type of sequestration on the appropriate page in the website.