During a recent government meeting, experts emphasized the urgent need for permits to conduct in-water pilot projects aimed at enhancing ocean alkalinity, a crucial step in advancing marine carbon dioxide removal (CDR) technologies. The discussions highlighted that while the foundational science behind ocean alkalinity enhancement is well-established, practical implementation is necessary to transition from research and development to large-scale applications that can significantly mitigate climate change.

Participants noted that this moment represents a critical inflection point for the marine CDR industry, which has the potential to play a vital role in addressing the severe impacts of climate change. The call to action was directed towards Congress, urging lawmakers to support initiatives that would facilitate the growth of this emerging field.

Dr. Scott Doni, a prominent environmental change expert from the University of Virginia, was among those who presented testimony, underscoring the collaborative efforts needed between the federal government and scientific communities to harness the benefits of marine CDR. The meeting underscored a collective excitement and urgency to move forward with these initiatives, marking a pivotal opportunity for legislative support in climate action.