Expanded ocean carbon capture projects should wait for further studies following the termination of a UK trial

The SeaCure project, one of the first full-scale assessments of direct ocean carbon capture and storage (DOCCS) systems, has made significant strides in the study of ocean carbon capture and storage technologies. The project's electrochemical process, used to remove carbon dioxide from seawater, has been found to raise the pH level of the treated seawater, making it more alkaline.

This increased pH level, in turn, enhances the treated seawater's capacity to absorb more atmospheric carbon dioxide. The SeaCure process, therefore, has the potential to contribute to reducing the amount of carbon dioxide in the atmosphere.

However, a comprehensive review conducted under the SeaCure project has revealed major gaps in understanding the ecological impacts of large-scale deployment of ocean carbon removal technologies. Scientists from the University of Exeter and Plymouth Marine Laboratory in the UK are urging caution over large-scale deployment, emphasising the need for further research and understanding of these potential impacts.

The SeaCure project's process involves increasing the pH of the treated seawater, which also means the removal of dissolved inorganic carbon from seawater. While this is a key aspect of the project, it's essential to consider the potential consequences on marine life and ecosystems.

The SeaCure project's findings underscore the importance of balancing the need for carbon capture technologies with the need to protect and preserve marine ecosystems. As research and development in this field continue, it's crucial to approach large-scale deployment with caution and a thorough understanding of the potential ecological impacts.

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