During a recent government meeting, experts discussed the pressing issue of ocean acidification, a consequence of rising carbon dioxide (CO2) levels in the atmosphere. Dr. Katnik highlighted that as CO2 is absorbed by the ocean, it leads to increased acidity, which has detrimental effects on marine ecosystems and species, particularly shellfish like Dungeness crab. This phenomenon disrupts shell formation in smaller marine organisms, which can have cascading impacts on the entire marine food web.

The conversation also touched on marine carbon dioxide removal (MCDR) strategies, which aim to sequester CO2 from the atmosphere into the ocean. One proposed method involves enhancing ocean alkalinity through the addition of materials like crushed limestone, which can help mitigate local acidification. Dr. Katnik emphasized that while the primary goal of MCDR is to remove CO2, it also offers co-benefits, such as reducing local acidity levels.

Further discussions revealed the importance of monitoring and understanding the implications of these technologies for national security. Concerns were raised about international investments, particularly from China, in developing carbon removal technologies. Experts stressed the need for the U.S. to advance its capabilities in this area and establish robust monitoring systems to verify claims made by other nations regarding their carbon sequestration efforts.

The meeting concluded with a focus on community engagement, with representatives from the Department of Energy (DOE) discussing plans to involve local communities in marine carbon dioxide removal projects, ensuring that their concerns are addressed before any demonstrations are conducted.