Carbon dioxide (CO 2) is the main compound identified as affectingthe stability of the Earth's climate. A significant reductionin the volume of greenhouse gas emissions to the atmosphereis a key mechanism for mitigating climate change. Geologicalstorage of CO 2, or the injection and long-term stabilizationof large volumes of CO 2 in the subsurface in saline aquifers,in existing hydrocarbon reservoirs or in unmineable coal seams,is one of the more technologically advanced options available.A number of studies have been carried out and are reported here.They are aimed at understanding the safety, physical and chemicalbehaviour and long-term fate of CO 2 when stored in geologicalformations. Until efficient, alternative energy options canbe developed, geological storage of CO 2, the subject of thisvolume, provides a mechanism to reduce carbon emissions significantlywhilst continuing to meet the global demand for energy.
