Evaluating the suitability of direct air carbon capture and storage in Virginia using geospatial multi-criteria decision analysis

Direct Air Carbon Capture and Storage (DACCS) is an emerging technology with significant potential to mitigate climate change by removing carbon dioxide directly from the atmosphere. While past studies have evaluated environmental impacts and economic feasibility of DACCS using Life Cycle Assessment and Techno-Economic Assessment, there is a significant gap in localized assessments of DACCS suitability to better inform and facilitate its implementation in geographic areas where it will be deployed. In this study, we developed a framework that combines geospatial analysis with Multi-Criteria Decision Analysis (MCDA) to facilitate a detailed, localized suitability analysis for DACCS implementation, considering economic, environmental, and social factors. Additionally, we created a web-based decision support tool to streamline the evaluation process for potential DACCS implementation, enhancing engagement with decision-makers and stakeholders. Focusing on Virginia as our case study, our findings indicate that most counties' suitability was significantly affected by changes in criteria prioritization, indicating the substantial impact of economic, environmental, and social factors. This variability highlights the importance of the decision support tool in enhancing decision-making by illustrating how differing criteria and stakeholder perspectives impact site assessments. This study underscores the necessity of a comprehensive and inclusive approach, particularly crucial for emerging carbon removal technology projects.