Eighth graders in nine Louisiana middle schools are learning about carbon capture and storage through a hands-on curriculum developed by Rice University's Tapia Center. The program uses classroom models to simulate injecting liquid CO2 underground, teaching students the basic science behind a technology that oil, gas, and petrochemical companies see as key to reducing emissions. ExxonMobil funded the program with a $51,000 grant and provided seed money for the curriculum. Critics argue the funding creates a conflict of interest, since ExxonMobil stands to benefit from CCS expansion in Louisiana and owns a major CO2 pipeline network in the region. The Tapia Center says its curriculum is scientifically independent and takes no position on the debate. The program has reached students in Texas, Mississippi, Tennessee, and Louisiana over four years.
