In the context of mitigating the impending global warming due to anthr

In the context of mitigating the impending global warming due to anthropogenic carbon dioxide, which of the following can be the potential sites for carbon sequestration ?

  • 1. Abandoned and uneconomic coal seams
  • 2. Depleted oil and gas reservoirs
  • 3. Subterranean deep saline formations

Select the correct answer using the code given below

1 and 2 only
3 only
1 and 3 only
1, 2 and 3
This question was previously asked in
UPSC IAS – 2017
Carbon sequestration is the process of capturing and storing atmospheric carbon dioxide. Geological sequestration involves injecting CO2 into deep underground geological formations. All three mentioned sites are considered potential locations for this process.
Statement 1 is correct. Abandoned and uneconomic coal seams have pore spaces within the coal matrix where CO2 can be stored. Injecting CO2 can displace adsorbed methane, potentially offering enhanced coal bed methane recovery while sequestering CO2.
Statement 2 is correct. Depleted oil and gas reservoirs are geological formations that previously held hydrocarbons for millions of years, indicating they are well-sealed and suitable for trapping fluids. They are prime candidates for CO2 injection for storage, often combined with Enhanced Oil Recovery (EOR) or Enhanced Gas Recovery (EGR) techniques.
Statement 3 is correct. Subterranean deep saline formations are porous rock layers saturated with highly saline water. These formations are vast and globally abundant, offering the largest potential storage capacity for CO2 compared to coal seams or depleted reservoirs. The CO2 dissolves in the saline water or is trapped in pore spaces.
– Geological carbon sequestration involves injecting CO2 into suitable underground rock formations.
– Abandoned coal seams, depleted oil/gas reservoirs, and deep saline formations are recognized potential sites.
Other potential sites for carbon sequestration include basalt formations and organic-rich shales. Alongside geological sequestration, other methods include terrestrial sequestration (forests, soils) and ocean sequestration (less explored/favoured due to environmental concerns). Carbon capture and storage (CCS) technologies are being developed and deployed globally as a means to mitigate climate change.
Exit mobile version