New Research Reveals Risks of Ocean Carbon Sequestration Technologies

New research reveals significant risks associated with marine carbon dioxide removal technologies. The world's oceans are seen as crucial in drawing carbon dioxide from the atmosphere to combat climate change.

However, an expert panel reporting to the European Union concluded that these technologies are not yet ready for widespread implementation. Helene Muri, a senior researcher at the Norwegian Institute for Air Research, emphasized the necessity of strong safeguards before scaling these methods.

The report titled, Monitoring, Reporting and Verification for Marine Carbon Dioxide Removal, was released during COP30, highlighting the urgency of addressing climate change. The report scrutinizes various marine carbon dioxide removal approaches, which utilize the ocean's natural ability to absorb carbon.

Some techniques focus on enhancing biological processes, such as promoting the growth of plankton and seaweed that absorb carbon dioxide. Others involve chemical or physical means to extract carbon from seawater.

Once captured, carbon can be stored in deep-sea sediments or geological formations. Muri pointed out that while the oceans can contribute to climate solutions, we must ensure their protection. She stated, "This is about safeguarding the oceans for a common good." As global temperatures rise faster than anticipated, immediate action is needed on proven strategies for emission reduction.

According to UN Secretary-General Antonio Guterres, a temporary overshoot of the 1.5C limit is likely by the early 2030s. The report indicates that while carbon removal is essential to meet climate targets, current ocean-based methods are still in their infancy.

There are technical challenges in proving the effectiveness of these carbon removal techniques and in monitoring their environmental impact. Muri noted that tracking carbon stored in the ocean is complicated due to its dynamic nature.

The report stresses the importance of establishing robust monitoring, reporting, and verification standards before expanding marine carbon dioxide removal technologies. As companies begin to seek carbon credits for their removal efforts, the verification process is critical to ensure transparency and reliability.

Muri cautioned against viewing marine carbon removal as a definitive solution to climate change, stating, "We don't know all the threats of these immature methods yet." The report emphasizes that while marine carbon removal may play a role in future climate strategies, it is not a panacea.

Therefore, careful consideration and further research are necessary before implementing these technologies on a larger scale.