Public perceptions of carbon capture and storage

Carbon capture and storage (CCS) is a way of reducing emissions by capturing CO₂ produced by industrial activity or power generation, transporting it, then storing it deep underground.

As CCS projects develop in Scotland, public understanding and confidence will be key to their success. Nationally, awareness of CCS remains low and opinions are ambivalent. At a local level, concerns about safety, cost and environmental impacts can contribute to the failure of CCS projects. The Acorn project, which will store captured CO₂ beneath the North Sea, is Scotland’s most significant CCS development and highlights the importance of building trust with local communities and the wider public.

This report reviews the evidence on public perceptions of CCS, the factors that shape them, and the lessons for effective public engagement. It draws on published research and interviews with experts from academia, government, regulators, the third sector, and industry.

Key findings

• Public awareness of CCS is low and people tend to feel neutral, but opinions can change quickly as they learn more, or depending on the stage of a project.
• Many people see CCS as an unproven technology, increasing uncertainty and concern about how well it works.
• Safety is a key concern. People want reassurance that carbon CO₂ can be stored safely underground long-term, and many have safety concerns about the chemicals used during the capture process.
• People are concerned about costs and impacts, including higher energy bills, delays to cleaner alternatives, and disruption such as noise and traffic during construction.
• Trust is essential. Projects are more likely to gain public support when developers are open, honest and responsive, and when communities see clear local benefits.
• Local context and the type of project matters. Previous experiences with industry, the history of an area, and attitudes towards other energy projects all influence how CCS is perceived.
• Early, honest and ongoing engagement works best. Involving communities in decisions is more effective than simply providing information or reassurance.

Lessons learned

• Understand local views from the start, especially in communities likely to be affected by CCS projects, such as those near Acorn.
• Don’t assume public support. Offshore storage, industrial heritage or support for one project does not guarantee support for future CCS developments.
• Local context matters. Understanding local priorities and concerns is key to effective engagement. Previous experiences with industry and economic change may also influence how communities view new projects.
• Start engagement early and keep it going. Communities should have genuine opportunities to ask questions, raise concerns and help shape decisions throughout a project’s lifetime.
• Build trust through action and honesty. Deliver promised benefits, monitor project performance and share results openly. Explain potential risks clearly, how they will be managed, and what will happen if problems arise.
• CCS should be part of a wider conversation about Scotland’s journey to net zero. Raising awareness nationally can help provide context before local discussions take place.

For further information, please read the full report.

If you require the report or annex in an alternative format, such as a Word document, please contact info@climatexchange.org.uk or 0131 651 4783.