UPDATE: A groundbreaking report from the Norwegian University of Science and Technology highlights urgent risks in the pursuit of turning oceans into carbon sinks. Just announced during COP30 in Brazil, experts warn that current marine carbon dioxide removal technologies are not ready for safe, large-scale implementation.
As global temperatures rise dangerously close to the 1.5°C threshold, researchers emphasize that immediate emissions reductions must remain the top priority. The report, led by Helene Muri of the European Marine Board, stresses that while ocean-based methods could play a future role, they require rigorous monitoring and verification to prevent new environmental issues.
The report outlines various marine carbon removal strategies, which rely on the ocean’s natural ability to absorb carbon dioxide. Some methods aim to enhance biological processes, like boosting plankton or seaweed growth, while others utilize chemical techniques for direct carbon extraction from seawater. However, experts caution that without robust safeguards, these methods could exacerbate existing problems rather than solve them.
“This is about safeguarding the oceans for a common good,” Muri stated. “We need to strengthen the way we safeguard them before we scale things up.” The report underscores that the ocean can contribute to climate solutions, but only with careful oversight.
With the UN General Secretary António Guterres highlighting the urgency of the climate crisis, he warned of an inevitable temporary overshoot beyond the 1.5°C limit by the early 2030s. “Let us be clear: the 1.5°C limit is a red line for humanity,” Guterres said.
The report makes it clear that proven methods for reducing emissions must take precedence over untested marine strategies. “We know how to cut emissions, and we have lots of methods that work. That has to take top priority,” Muri emphasized.
Despite the necessity for carbon removal to counteract emissions in hard-to-decarbonize sectors like aviation, experts recognize that marine carbon removal technologies are still in their infancy. Current trials lack the maturity needed for reliable implementation and verification.
Muri raises critical questions about the efficacy of these methods: “How can a company prove how much extra carbon dioxide its technology removes? If carbon is stored in the deep ocean, how long will it stay there?” The complexities of ocean storage and the constant changes in marine environments complicate management and monitoring.
With companies already eyeing carbon credits for removal, Muri warns against rushing into unverified methods. “None of these methods are mature to use if you cannot verify impacts,” she cautioned.
Looking ahead, experts agree that while marine carbon removal may be necessary for achieving ambitious climate goals, the focus must remain on proven emission reduction strategies. As Muri concluded, “We must have a net removal of carbon dioxide from the atmosphere to get to 1.5°C, and that means likely large-scale removal towards the end of the century.”
As the climate crisis intensifies, the stakes couldn’t be higher. The findings from COP30 serve as a stark reminder that while innovation is essential, careful consideration and oversight must guide the path forward.
Stay tuned for more updates on this developing story as the global community grapples with the pressing need for sustainable climate solutions.
