Mapping CO₂ Emission Sources and Geologic Sinks

WESTCARB is characterizing the extent and capacity of geologic formations capable of storing CO2, known as sinks. Results are entered into a geographic information system (GIS) database, along with the location of major CO2-emitting point sources in each WESTCARB state, enabling researchers and the public to gauge the proximity of candidate CO2 storage sites to emission sources and the feasibility of linking and aggregating sources to a single or multiple sinks via pipelines. For California, WESTCARB researchers summarized analyses of source-sink "matching" in an Energy Commission report.

The WESTCARB GIS database (known as the carbon atlas) stores layers of geologic information about potential underground storage sites, such as porosity and nearby fault-lines and aquifers. Researchers use these data, along with interpreted geophysical data and available oil and gas well “logs,” to estimate the region’s potential geologic storage capacity. This information can aid the development of a regional carbon management strategy.

Data from the WESTCARB Carbon Atlas are integrated with those from other regional partnerships, thereby supporting the U.S. Department of Energy's national carbon explorer and atlas (NATCARB).