A Los Angeles-based start-up, Equatic, is developing a process to remove CO2 from seawater and produce green hydrogen, but experts warn of potential environmental risks.
Jocelyn Timperley reports for BBC.
In short:
- Equatic's process captures CO2 from seawater, storing it as bicarbonate ions and mineral carbonates while generating green hydrogen.
- Critics fear large-scale ocean carbon removal could harm marine ecosystems and distract from cutting emissions.
- The technology has pilot plants in Singapore and LA, with plans for a larger facility in Quebec by 2026.
Key quote:
"At a scale to meaningfully impact the climate, marine CO2 removal would be inherently unpredictable and pose significant, new and unprecedented risks to the fragile ecosystems that sustain life on Earth."
— Mary Church, geoengineering campaign manager, Center for International Environmental Law
Why this matters:
Relying on the ocean for carbon capture offers promise but comes with risks of harming marine ecosystems. Solutions must balance innovation with environmental protection while prioritizing emissions reduction.
Learn more: New methods aim to enhance the ocean's ability to capture carbon dioxide
