Introduction to this special section: Geophysics and sustainability

Abstract

Unprecedented levels of greenhouse gasses in the atmosphere drive climate change by trapping heat and raising global temperatures. This warming effect disrupts weather patterns, increases the frequency of natural disasters, and contributes to rising sea levels. Applied geophysics can significantly alleviate anthropogenic emissions and accelerate the transition to cleaner energy sources such as wind, solar, geothermal energy, and hydrogen. One solution at the core of energy transition is the broad application of carbon capture, utilization, and geologic storage (CCUS) at the scale of gigatonnes of sequestered CO2 to reduce greenhouse gas emissions during the transition to a carbon-neutral future. Geophysical monitoring is central to the success of CCUS. In particular, seismic methods serve as a primary tool to ensure compliance and safety in CCUS projects. However, the role of geophysics in sustainability is a broader topic extending beyond carbon geosequestration.