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 of the six WESTCARB states, enabling researchers and the public to gauge the proximity of candidate CO₂ storage sites to emission sources and the feasibility of linking them via pipelines.

Specifically, the WESTCARB GIS database (also 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. The database also depicts existing pipeline routes and rights-of-way and lands that could be off-limits, which can aid the development of a regional carbon management strategy.

The WESTCARB Carbon Atlas, which is accessible to the public, provides a resource for public discourse on practical solutions for regional CO₂ management. A key WESTCARB partner — the Utah Automated Geographic Reference Center — has developed data serving procedures to enable the WESTCARB Carbon Atlas to be integrated with those from other regional partnerships, thereby supporting the U.S. Department of Energy's national carbon atlas (NATCARB).