Progress of CO ₂ geological storage research, policy development and suggestions in China

Carbon dioxide (CO2) is recognized as one of the most significant greenhouse gases in the atmosphere. As the largest emitter of CO2 globally, China encounters considerable challenges in mitigating its emissions. The International Energy Agency (IEA) has emphasized that achieving net-zero CO2 emissions is unattainable without the implementation of CO2 geological storage technology. Through a systematic data analysis of the distribution of CO2 geological storage projects and carbon storage policies in China and internationally, this paper introduces China’s efforts to promote the development of CO2 geological storage projects through the formulation of policies, participation in international cooperation, and cooperation among enterprises. The article is the first to propose that CO2 geological storage development in China should be tailored to different provinces by grasping the characteristics and strategic layout of the development of CO2 geological storage technologies at home and abroad. Using Shaanxi, a province rich in resources, and Hunan, a resource-scarce province, as representative examples, it suggests that each province should adapt to its local characteristics for CO2 geological storage. This new approach holds significant implications for determining key areas of focus, development directions, and formulating related policies for CO2 geological storage in the country.