Controversy in technology innovation: Contrasting media and expert risk perceptions of the alleged leakage at the Weyburn carbon dioxide storage demonstration project

► CCS professionals and the media presented different interpretations of alleged leak. ► Most news reports were in Canada with few mentions in the UK, USA and Australia. ► CCS experts recognized that the controversy could remain in the publics' memory. ► Allegations were viewed as a learning opportunity for management and communication. ► Results discuss importance of CO2 monitoring and public engagement for CCS support.