Algerian gasfield buries carbon dioxide

The Kretchmar gas field, located south of Algiers, serves as an environmental lab where scientists explore carbon dioxide storage to combat global warming. The field extracts natural gas with high CO2 content, which is separated and buried underground to prevent atmospheric release. Despite burying a million tons of CO2 annually, challenges remain, especially in urban areas. The technology is promising but not yet widely implemented due to cost and logistical issues.

What is the primary purpose of the Kretchmar gas field?

• To produce electricity

• To extract and sell natural gas

• To serve as a tourist attraction

• To act as an environmental laboratory for CO2 storage

Why is the carbon dioxide content of the natural gas at Kretchmar a concern?

• It reduces the energy efficiency of the gas

• It prevents the gas from being sold in its natural state

• It makes the gas too expensive to sell

• It causes the gas to be highly flammable

How is the separated carbon dioxide stored at the Kretchmar site?

• It is converted into solid form

• It is released into the atmosphere

• It is stored in large tanks above ground

• It is buried in an underground aquifer

What is the equivalent of the CO2 buried annually at Kretchmar in terms of car emissions?

• 100,000 cars

• 400,000 cars

• 200,000 cars

• 300,000 cars

What is a major challenge in implementing CO2 storage technology in urban areas?

• Public opposition

• Lack of available land

• Higher costs and complexity

• Insufficient technology