Dr. Mahelet Fikru, professor of economics, and Dr. Ting Shen, assistant professor of psychological science, both researchers with the Center for Science, Technology and Society (CSTS), have co-authored a study published in the April 2025 issue of Applied Economics. The research examines the strategic co-location of carbon capture projects (CCPs) with pollution-intensive manufacturing facilities, providing insights critical to climate change mitigation.

Analyzing data from 26,086 U.S. zip codes, researchers used advanced statistical methods to measure the likelihood of CCPs being placed near pollution-intensive industries. It also explores associations between socio-economic and demographic characteristics and CCP placement, finding a consistent negative association between population density and CCP presence.

Seed grants from CSTS enabled the researchers to access advanced statistical software and hire students to assist in data collection, supporting the successful completion of the study.

For more details, read the full study online.