After extensive research done in the past decades it has become a scientific fact that there has been an increase in CO2 concentration in the atmosphere. The concentration rose from 180ppm 17,000 years ago to 300ppm in 1850 and 380ppm in 2000. Although it has been proved that certain variations in the Earth's history had natural causes, the question of the relation between this increase and anthropogenic influence during the past 150 years remains unanswered. Since CO2 concentration is directly related to the greenhouse effect and we are still not technologically capable of satisfying energy needs without making use of fossil fuels, the "bridging technology" is found in the Carbon Capture and Storage systems. The CCS concept should increase power production and, at the same time, reduce CO2 emissions worldwide. Geological storage possibilities come in as a viable option to use pore space in deep subsurface formations for permanent storage of CO2 separated from flue gases of large emitters – "point sources". The most promising types of such objects – "sinks" are deep regional aquifers, depleted hydrocarbon fields and deep coal seams.

The Kyoto Protocol obligates the EU to cut CO2 emissions by 8% by 2008-2012 and greater reductions will probably be required thereafter. The "New Europe" will also have to face the challenge of reducing CO2 emissions Europe-wide. The aim of the planned CO2NET EAST workshop is to provide a basic overview of the CCS concept and of ongoing activities in this area to interested parties in new EU Member States and Candidate Countries.