Rangeland Ecology & Management

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West Coast Regional Carbon Sequestration Partnership
Author
Myer, Larry
Publisher
Elsevier Ltd.
Publication Year
2005
Body

Summary The West Coast Regional Carbon Sequestration Partnership (WESTCARB) is one of seven partnerships established by the US Department of Energy (DOE) to evaluate carbon dioxide capture, transport, and sequestration (CCS) technologies best suited for different regions of the country. The West Coast Region comprises Arizona, California, Nevada, Oregon, Washington, and Alaska. The Partnership is evaluating both terrestrial and geologic sequestration options. Data is being collected to characterize the terrestrial and geologic sinks, and the large CO2 point sources in the region. The terrestrial and geologic data are compiled in Geographic Information System (GIS) layers, which is made available to the public through an interactive internet site. The GIS database also is used for analysis of sequestration options. Supply curves for major classes of regional land use and forest activities are being prepared. In California, these analyses suggest that afforestation of rangeland is one of the best terrestrial options. The geologic formation data layer is combined with other layers containing data on active faults, urban areas, transportation routes, point source locations, restricted lands, etc, in economic and other screening analyses of potential sequestration targets. Activities addressing technology deployment issues involve: compilation and assessment of regulations and permits, development of a geologic risk assessment framework, development of monitoring and verification protocols, and life cycle analysis of the effect of CCS technologies on other emissions. Public outreach is considered to be an essential component of the Partnership effort. Activities include development of a web site, educational materials, materials for informing State and National policy, and stakeholders meetings.

Language
English
Resource Type
Text
Document Type
Conference Proceedings
Book Title
Greenhouse Gas Control Technologies 7
Keywords
carbon dioxide
carbon sequestration
climate change
Carbon Sink
monitoring
land use
southern Africa