Scientists will research sub-seabed CO2 storage

Scientists have begun work on an investigation into potential leakage of sub-seabed carbon dioxide (CO2) from storage sites on marine ecosystems.

The project is being funded by the European Union (EU) and will include contributions from 27 project partners in nine nations.

Scientist involved in the project will study existing sub-seabed storage sites in the Norwegian North Sea and the Barents Sea as well as natural seeps at the seafloor to assess the safety of storage sites and the impact of potential CO2 leakage on the marine ecosystem.

The successful capture of CO2 is considered by the European Commission as a potentially important technology for the reduction of emissions in order to prevent future climate change.

It has allocated €10.5 million (£9.1 million) for the project and the scientists will consider the potential economic and legal issues surrounding sub-seabed carbon dioxide storage, including those which could be caused by leaks.