Sept. 13, 2010 - California State University, Bakersfield will host a free public workshop on carbon capture and sequestration (CCS) technologies from 8 a.m. to 4:30 p.m. Friday, Oct. 1, in the Student Union Multipurpose Room, 9001 Stockdale Highway.

The all-day workshop will feature experts on carbon capture and sequestration along with local Bakersfield business leaders who will discuss CCS technologies and their ability to reduce greenhouse gas emissions. CCS captures carbon dioxide from power plants and other industrial sources and stores it in geologic formations deep underground, thus preventing the release of carbon dioxide into the atmosphere.

"This is an important topic for Kern County because the region's oil fields are a suitable location for underground storage of carbon dioxide," said CSUB geology professor Dirk Baron. "As an added benefit, the gas can enhance the recovery of residual oil, thus enhancing oil production from mature fields."

There are currently two projects proposed in Kern County, one by Hydrogen Energy California near the Elk Hills oil field, and another by the West Coast Regional Carbon Sequestration Partnership on Kimberlina Road north of Bakersfield.

"These projects could have a significant economic impact on the region and the workshop's goal is to inform the public about these technologies," Baron said.

Pre-event registration is required to attend. The event is free and includes lunch. Free parking will be available in Lot K. For more information or to register, visit: http://csubworkshop.eventbrite.com.