The White House Office of Science and Technology Policy has announced a fast-track action committee to evaluate the potential and challenges of marine carbon dioxide removal.
Carbon dioxide removal involves removing CO2 that is already in the atmosphere or in the upper ocean, and storing it for centuries or longer. It is seen as a promising solution to offset emissions.
Less is known specifically about marine carbon dioxide removal, but suggestions include altering the chemical composition of sea water so that the ocean absorbs more CO2 from the atmosphere.
The new committee will study the various possibilities; draft recommendations for policy, permitting and regulatory standards; and develop a plan for a federal research programme. It includes experts from more than a dozen federal departments and agencies.