CO2 capture and storage: are we ready?

Options for capture and storage of CO2 that would otherwise be released into the atmosphere by combustion of fossil fuels are considered. This paper assesses whether CO2 can be captured, whether sufficient potential capacity exists for storage in geologic formations, describes physical mechanisms that can prevent escape of the CO2 from the subsurface, delineates methods for monitoring the movement of CO2 in the subsurface and for detecting leaks, and describes field experience with CO2 injection. While much remains to be learned about the design of specific storage projects, the current state of knowledge of carbon capture and storage is sufficient to permit testing at the scale of large power plants.