# Microbial Considerations for the Permanent Geological Storage of CO2

## TL;DR

This paper explores how microbes in underground rock formations can affect the safe storage of CO2, highlighting both risks and potential benefits.

## Contribution

The paper introduces a holistic biogeochemical approach to monitor and manage microbial activity in CO2 storage.

## Key findings

- Microbial processes like methanogenesis and carbonate mineralization can impact CO2 storage outcomes.
- Comprehensive microbial and geochemical monitoring is essential for safe and effective CO2 storage.
- Collaboration across sectors is needed to address microbial risks and opportunities in geological storage.

## Abstract

Carbon capture and storage (CCS) is a cornerstone strategy for achieving Net Zero emissions, yet the role of microbial life in subsurface CO2 storage remains underexplored. This mini‐review highlights the deep biosphere as a key but overlooked player in CCS operations across saline aquifers, depleted hydrocarbon reservoirs and basalt formations. It synthesizes evidence that microbial communities can both compromise and enhance CO2 storage via processes like methanogenesis, sulfidogenesis, corrosion and carbonate mineralization. Drawing on insights from hydrocarbon extraction and early CCS case studies, the review emphasizes the need for comprehensive microbial and geochemical monitoring to assess risks and harness potential benefits. The authors advocate for a holistic biogeochemistry toolkit and cross‐sector collaboration to ensure safe, effective and microbiologically informed CCS deployment.

The impacts of microbiology on the storage of CO2 are poorly understood but could be critical to its safe geological disposal. We review evidence for microbial risks and opportunities, and argue for a holistic biogeochemical approach to monitoring, managing and potentially harnessing microbial activity in geological storage operations.