Published in Scientific Papers. Series E. Land Reclamation, Earth Observation & Surveying, Environmental Engineering, Vol. XIV
Written by Lia STELEA, Alexandra-Constanța DUDU, Corina AVRAM, Gabriel IORDACHE, Constantin-Ștefan SAVA
Carbon capture and storage (CCS) is a promising solution for reducing carbon emissions, but the risk of CO2 leakage requires monitoring. As part of project PN 23300404, we aim to develop an environmental monitoring methodology for onshore geological storage sites, evaluating vegetation surveys as a monitoring tool. In 2024, we conducted combined vegetation and geochemical surveys at two sites: Bodoc, an analogue for safe storage, and Băile Lăzărești, an analogue for CO2 leakage. Using a grid-based sampling approach, we measured soil-flux and concentrations alongside floristic observations. At Bodoc, no significant relationship was observed between CO2 levels and vegetation state. In contrast, at Băile Lăzărești, areas with high CO2 concentrations had sparse vegetation and exposed soil, though these features were also present in some low-CO2 areas due to landscaping. Follow-up surveys are planned for next year to determine the natural variability of the vegetation. Currently, we conclude that vegetation surveys have the potential to be used for leakage identification.
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