Upholding Social Justice Principles in Carbon Capture and Sequestration: Case of Southeastern Michigan
Hu, Hejing; Somantri, Michael; Peng, Zirui; Tan, Ziwen
2024
Abstract
As the world is grappling with a worsening climate change crisis, there is a growing consensus that the world might need to scale up carbon dioxide removal activities to complement mitigation and adaptation efforts. Climate change and decarbonization can cause disproportionate impacts on disadvantaged communities, such as increased energy burden and job displacement, especially in regions such as Southeastern Michigan. Thus, it is important to prioritize the needs and concerns of these communities by implementing targeted policies and investments, increasing awareness, and empowering them to participate in decision-making processes. In particular, the Justice40 Initiative can be a momentum to support this transition process. The Justice40 Initiative’s goal is to ensure that 40% of the overall benefits of certain Federal investments flow to disadvantaged communities. In this context, this project aims to study the feasibility of Carbon Capture and Sequestration (CCS) in the Southeastern Michigan region while promoting a sustainable environment and transition through the Justice40 Initiative. While there are several research projects that focus on the technological aspect of CCS, studies to understand the policy, socioeconomic, and social justice aspects of CCS deployment are still lagging. As societal consideration is a key component of success for any CCS initiative, it is imperative to advance the social aspect in addition to providing economic and policy incentives that can catalyze deployment at scale. With the geographical focus on Southeastern Michigan, our study utilizes three research approaches: (1) geospatial analysis, (2) social life cycle assessment (S-LCA), and (3) stakeholder engagement. This report presented our results of literature review, analysis and the recommendations for policymakers and project developers. The geospatial analysis presents the reclassification of pollution burden based on the burden indicators such as energy and housing from the Climate and Economic Justice Screening Tool. Further, the cluster analysis exhibited spatial distribution patterns and the relationships with the emitter location and disadvantaged communities. The social life cycle assessment presented a framework for analysis focusing on potential social issues and opportunities from the lens of sustainable development's three pillars: People, Planet, and Prosperity. The societal aspect of the development of a CCS facility includes key stakeholder categories, such as workers, society, and local communities. Finally, the stakeholder engagement part presented key insights from diverse stakeholders including public, private, and civil representatives. Participation in conferences and workshops allowed us to interact with several stakeholders and provided valuable insights into conducting social studies while establishing connections with fellow scholars. Overall, our study highlights the importance of engaging with local social groups and the need for ensuring transparency, building credibility, and upholding aspects of recognitional, procedural, and distributional justice. Effective Greenhouse Gas (GHG) emissions control, especially from major sources like power plants, combined with targeted social justice interventions in heavily burdened clusters, is crucial. Addressing labor rights, community engagement, and indigenous rights within the context of CCS projects is paramount to ensuring an equitable and just transition to net-zero emissions. Transparent communication, thoughtful implementation, and genuine stakeholder engagement are essential to ensure equity and leveraging Michigan's geological potential for CCS. This holistic approach will enable the region to navigate the complex interplay between technological advancement, environmental sustainability, and social equity.Deep Blue DOI
Subjects
social impacts equity justice CCS
Types
Project
Metadata
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