CLEAR Gulf
Executive Summary
Problem: The residents of the Gulf of Mexico’s “Energy Coast” communities face immediate and unique sets of challenges. While they experience more frequent and intense storms and flooding because of climate change, many also face potential risks associated with the large-scale implementation of complex technologies designed to reduce CO2.
- Federal guidelines for investments in new energy infrastructure projects require participation
by affected communities. Thus, they need unbiased, trustworthy information.
Proposed Plan: We propose to create an innovative two-way communication platform to engage communities in discussions about decarbonization projects. Recent experience suggests that these types of discussions will be most effective if not tied to real, impending projects. We will create a set of realistic hypothetical projects, such as a possible geological CO2 sequestration (CCS) project, a geothermal power generation project, a "blue hydrogen” generation facility, or a subsurface hydrogen storage project.
Outcome & Generalizable Insights: We will process data collected through community engagements to produce detailed assessments. Key capacities of more resilient communities will be enhanced. Innovative educational tools developed & shared widely.