Eight years of research on a marine natural analogue for sub-seabed CO2 storage seepage

The present study is aimed to understand the effects of potential CO₂ seepage from sub-seabed storage sites and to identify the main parameters to be monitored for reliable detection and monitoring. An area was identified where the natural release of CO₂ from the seabed is present. This area, even if not suitable for CO₂ storage, can be considered as a field-lab, where it is possible to study the effects of high levels of CO₂ on the marine realm and to validate measuring, monitoring and verification techniques for potential sub-seabed CO₂ storage seepage. The environmental conditions are favourable for safe use of Scuba diving techniques, allowing for a level of detail in the study that is not usually achievable by surface techniques.