What Are Class VI Wells?
Class VI wells are a specific type of injection well regulated under the U.S. EPA’s Underground Injection Control (UIC) program, used exclusively for Geologic Sequestration (GS). This is the practice of capturing carbon dioxide (CO2) from large industrial sources and injecting it deep underground for long-term storage. While promoted as a solution to address greenhouse gas emissions, this technology is complex, expensive, and largely experimental. The process involves highly pressurizing the CO2 (often above 1,000 PSI) into a supercritical fluid, which is then injected into deep, porous rock formations, typically saline aquifers.
CCS is not carbon negative or even carbon neutral. Experts say CCS is a lifeline for the fossil fuel industry that allows oil and gas companies to reframe their products as climate-friendly.
Carbon pipelines pose a threat of nightmarish disasters. In 2020, a pipeline carrying pressurized CO2 suddenly burst outside of Satartia, MS,
releasing a cloud of toxic CO2 gas into the nearby community. The rupture left residents dazed and gasping for air in a scene described by first
responders as “like something you’d see in a zombie movie,” ultimately hospitalizing dozens and forcing hundreds to evacuate their homes..
Our Legislative Action
H.B. 170 passed the Ohio House in 2025. S.B. 136 is being considered in 2026 by the Senate. (in bold:) contact your representatives to vote “no” on the carbon capture bills in the legislature. Reach out to us to learn more or to get involved.
Take a look at our informational webinar breaking down everything you need to know about Carbon Capture Storage:
This webinar was presented in November, 2025 by Fieldnotes, Buckeye Environmental Network, and the Ohio River Valley Institute on the oil & gas industry’s push to fast-track carbon capture and storage development in Ohio. We covered carbon management basics, daylighted the industry’s closed-door legislative influence, and explained what’s at stake if state regulators are granted oversight of this risky new form of waste injection.