Washington, D.C., November 14, 2024 —The White House Office of Science and Technology Policy (OSTP) has unveiled a new national strategy to advance research into marine carbon dioxide removal (mCDR), given its important promise as a tool to help combat dangerous climate change.
The strategy outlines the need for comprehensive research using field trials, laboratory experiments, and modeling to assess the effectiveness, risks, and tradeoffs of various mCDR methods. The strategy emphasizes the importance of conducting this research transparently and responsibly, adhering to a clear code of conduct and engaging local communities throughout the process.
This effort is part of a broader commitment by the US government to build the knowledge base required to inform future climate decisions, with the Ocean Climate Action Plan (OCAP) establishing a 2030 target for understanding mCDR methods.
Ocean Visions issued the following statement in response, commending this meaningful step:
“We fully support this national strategy, and it is closely aligned with Ocean Visions’ High-Level Road Map to Prove or Disprove Marine Carbon Dioxide Removal by 2030. The strategy articulates the needed research agenda — including field, lab, and modeling studies — to answer critical questions about the safety, efficacy, and potential of marine carbon dioxide removal technologies. Additionally, the emphasis on responsible research practices, including engaging local communities and adhering to a code of conduct, mirrors the approach for which we’ve advocated. The 2030 target set in the strategy reflects the reality that we need to quickly build our knowledge base to make informed decisions about these emerging technologies. We look forward to working alongside all interested parties to ensure mCDR technologies are tested in a safe, equitable, expeditious, and scientifically rigorous manner.”
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Ocean Visions is a non-profit organization that catalyzes innovation at the intersection of the ocean and climate crises. We facilitate multisector collaborations from within our Network and beyond, working with leading research institutions, the private sector, and public-interest organizations to fully explore and advance responsible and effective ocean-based climate solutions. In short, we work to stabilize the climate and restore ocean health. To learn more, visit www.oceanvisions.org or follow Ocean Visions on X at www.x.com/Ocean_Visions and LinkedIn at www.linkedin.com/company/ocean-visions.