Can East African rift basalts sequester CO2? Case study of the Kenya rift

East African rift basalts, particularly those in the Kenya rift, show significant potential for carbon dioxide (CO2) sequestration through mineral carbonation. This study identifies 19 basalt groups with thicknesses ranging from a few meters to 1500 meters, offering efficient geological storage due to their divalent mineral content and proximity to stationary CO2 sources. The research assesses four key parameters: water availability, subsurface temperature, permeability and porosity of the target formation, and accessibility to geothermal systems. The central Kenya rift is ranked as the most suitable region for CO2 sequestration, followed by the northern and southern regions. However, challenges such as toxic gas emissions, leakage risks, induced seismicity, and economic costs must be addressed. This study provides a foundation for identifying viable carbon sequestration areas that could mitigate climate change impacts.

Okoko, G. O., & Olaka, L. A. (2021). Can East African rift basalts sequester CO2? Case study of the Kenya rift. Scientific African, 13, e00924. https://doi.org/10.1016/j.sciaf.2021.e00924