Browsing by Author "Arthur, Jessie"

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    A seismic study of active faults, Canterbury, New Zealand
    (2013-10-01) Arthur, Jessie; Lawton, Donald
    The 2010-2011 Canterbury earthquake sequence on the South Island of New Zealand occurred in a region where hidden faults systems were unknown, but were suspected. Following the 2011 Christchurch earthquake, 2D seismic reflection data was acquired in the Canterbury region. The seismic data, along with a regional tectonic and geologic overview, is used to image, interpret, and identify faults extending to basement structure beneath the Canterbury Plains. Seismic risk hazard is further assessed through the multi-channel analysis of surface waves (MASW) method, where Rayleigh wave dispersion curves are inverted to generate shear wave velocity profiles. Low shear velocity areas are identified, indicating lower soil stiffness and thus risk of potential liquefaction which is an important characterization in seismically active areas. Further fault zone research is investigated by seismic physical modeling inspired by the Greendale Fault in New Zealand, and final imaged results are comparable to acquired field data.
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    Carbon Capture in Alberta: Costs, Benefits, and Policy
    (2017-09-15) Arthur, Jessie; Arthur, Jessie; Dr. Jennifer Winter; Dr. Jennifer Winter
    Alberta's industrial and power sectors have many facilities classified as large emitters, with high-concentration carbon dioxide emissions from large point sources. Carbon capture and storage (CCS) reduces high-concentration carbon dioxide emissions from large point sources. CCS is a technically feasible technology that reduces greenhouse gas emissions in existing industries, and is recognized as a key factor in reaching international climate change targets. Alberta hosts two commercial-scale CCS projects funded by the provincial government and private industry. However, even with regulatory approvals for CCS projects, including the province's property right to subsurface pore space for CO2 sequestration, future CCS commercial-scale projects are non-existent. CCS deployment is often obstructed by high project costs and risks in developing an emerging technology to commercial scale. Recent carbon pricing in Alberta may provide an incentive for investment in CCS and deployment. This research includes a Multiple Account Benefit-Cost Analysis of carbon capture and storage projects in Alberta, from the perspective of Albertans. There is a significant cost to private firms and industry to invest in CCS. However, as carbon prices escalate to $50 per tonne by 2022, CCS becomes more economical for the cement industry, and hydrogen processing, ammonia, and chemical production. When impacts in the taxpayer, environment, social, and economic activity accounts are considered, there is an overall benefit to Albertans to reduce carbon emissions with CCS. Regardless, public perception of CCS projects remains a crucial factor. Recent public opposition to a CCS pilot project in Alberta demonstrates the power of negative public opinion to cancel projects, and should not be underestimated. Both industry and the government need to ensure trust and a sense of fairness is established when engaging with communities regarding CCS initiatives. To reduce barriers to CCS development and increase investment in CCS, a policy strategy is needed. The policy strategy needs to address both the market failures that lead to pollution and an underinvestment in research. Therefore, in addition to carbon pricing, environmental taxation such as tax credits specifically for CCS projects can encourage research and development. To also signal government support to the public and investors, existing low-carbon and clean-energy projects that are incentivized by provincial and federal governments should extend to include CCS in both the industrial and power sectors. With recent carbon pricing, this research provides the opportunity to reexamine CCS in Alberta and consider complementary policies for CCS deployment that can benefit Albertans as a whole.