Assessment Criteria for Environmental Justice in Carbon Capture Utilization and Storage

Carbon capture utilization and storage (CCUS) is a technology that captures carbon dioxide (CO2) from industrial processes and power generation and then stores it underground. While CCUS has the potential to significantly reduce greenhouse gas emissions, it is important to consider the environmental justice implications of this technology. Here are eight criteria that can be used to assess the environmental justice of CCUS:

Distribution: Is the burden of CCUS infrastructure and operations distributed fairly across different communities? Are certain communities disproportionately affected by the location of CCUS facilities and the transportation of captured CO2?

Participation: Do marginalized communities have meaningful opportunities to participate in the decision-making process of CCUS projects? Are they given a voice in shaping policies and programs that affect them?

Recognition: Are the needs and concerns of marginalized communities recognized and acknowledged by decision-makers in CCUS projects? Are their unique perspectives taken into account?

Transparency: Is information related to CCUS projects readily available and accessible to marginalized communities? Do they have the capacity to understand and use this information?

Accountability: Are decision-makers held accountable for their actions and decisions related to CCUS projects? Are there mechanisms in place to hold them accountable and are these mechanisms accessible and responsive to marginalized communities?

Remediation: Are efforts made to address and remedy any negative impacts of CCUS projects on marginalized communities? Are they provided with resources and opportunities to participate in these efforts?

Prevention: Are efforts made to prevent negative impacts of CCUS projects on marginalized communities? Are policies and programs in place to protect these communities?

Enforcement: Are laws and regulations related to CCUS projects enforced in marginalized communities? Are they enforced in a consistent and fair manner and do marginalized communities have access to legal remedies when their rights are violated?

By considering these eight criteria, we can ensure that CCUS technology is implemented in an environmentally just manner and that marginalized communities are protected from negative impacts. Additionally, it's important to consider the potential long-term effects of the storage of CO2 underground, including the risks of leakage and how that can affect the environment and communities. And it's also important to take into account the potential effects that the infrastructure and operations of CCUS can have on the land, water and air resources, and how they can affect the communities that depend on them.

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