Kyushu University researchers demonstrated a new method for continuously monitoring the environment just below Earth’s surface using a small seismic source and fiber-optic cables.

Accurate and frequent measurements of changes in the ground enabled by the system can aid in the safe and efficient implementation of measures to fight climate change such as carbon storage and geothermal energy generation.

“Storing captured carbon dioxide underground and generating electricity from geothermal energy are two important technologies for reducing greenhouse gases,” says Takeshi Tsuji, lead author of the study published in Scientific Reports.

“However, for further adoption of these technologies, we urgently need better monitoring tools to mitigate and respond to related risks such as leakage and induced earthquake activity.”

Read more at Kyushu University

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