Academies want more research into carbon storage

Significant R&D investment in carbon capture and storage is urgently needed if the technology is to become a significant component of Europe’s energy strategy, according to the European Academies Science Advisory Council.

In a report to be published tomorrow (22 May) in Brussels, Easac says that carbon capture and storage is not currently an economically viable solution to tackle climate change. This is despite the fact that the technology—which involves relocating carbon dioxide emissions to underground storage sites— has been included in the EU’s strategy for renewable energy.

In particular, “strong policy action will be essential to create CCS demonstration plants and the first generation of commercial facilities,” states Easac. The academy says these facilities are essential to resolve uncertainties on the long-term safety of carbon storage. Further research is also needed into transport options via pipelines or ships.