Environmental concerns raised over Carbfix’s Coda Terminal project in Hafnarfjörður

Environmental concerns have arisen regarding Carbfix’s plans for the Coda Terminal project in Hafnarfjörður. The Environmental Agency of Iceland has assessed the environmental impact documentation submitted by Carbfix and found several shortcomings, particularly concerning the effects on the protected Ástjörn area. The agency noted that the project descriptions do not align with the preservation criteria established for Ástjörn.

The Coda Terminal, which is proposed to be situated near residential areas, aims to store and process carbon dioxide. Concerns have been raised about potential induced seismic activity from the operation, a claim disputed by Carbfix, which considers such occurrences unlikely. The terminal would potentially pump three million tons of CO2 underground annually.

The agency also expressed apprehension over the potential degradation of Ástjörn, designated as a nature reserve since 1978 and noted for its rich biodiversity, which includes a rare breeding habitat for a protected bird species. The preservation regulations explicitly prohibit changes to the natural water table there.

The Environmental Agency criticized the environmental assessment provided by Carbfix, stating it inadequately addresses the potential negative impacts on undisturbed lava fields. Instead, it recommends that temporary structures be placed in altered areas rather than pristine lava.

Furthermore, the assessment highlighted uncertainties regarding the effects on surface and groundwater, particularly with regards to Kleifarvatn, another local body of water. The need for thorough reevaluation of the seismic risk, given the project’s proximity to populated areas, reflects growing community concern and active debate about the implications of the Coda Terminal. The agency maintains that no carbon injection of this scale has previously been attempted in Iceland.