In the quest to mitigate climate change, scientists are exploring innovative technologies, one of which is Direct Ocean Carbon Capture and Storage (DOCCS). This electrochemical process removes inorganic carbon from seawater, facilitating the removal of carbon dioxide (CO2) from the atmosphere. However, as with any emerging technology, understanding its potential environmental impacts is crucial. A recent study published in the journal “Frontiers in Climate” sheds light on this very topic, with lead author Guy Hooper from the University of Exeter’s Department of Geography at the helm.
DOCCS works by releasing low-carbon seawater into the surface ocean, where it re-equilibrates with the atmosphere, effectively storing atmospheric CO2. “At the point of release, DOCCS discharge has low concentrations of dissolved inorganic carbon (DIC) and high pH,” explains Hooper. “This could potentially cause unintended marine environmental impacts, although its chemistry progressively moves towards that of ambient seawater as it dilutes and re-equilibrates with the atmosphere.”
The study highlights that while there are no published studies investigating the impact of DOCCS discharge on marine ecosystems, research from relevant analogues provides some insight. “Despite this, significant evidence gaps remain,” Hooper cautions. These gaps are critical to address, as understanding the potential risks and benefits to marine ecosystems is essential for several reasons.
Firstly, it supports licensing applications for DOCCS projects. Secondly, it aids in developing any necessary mitigating actions to protect marine life. Thirdly, it helps determine the net benefit of marine carbon dioxide removal (mCDR) approaches like DOCCS. Lastly, it stimulates informed public discourse about the acceptability of such approaches.
The energy sector, particularly companies investing in carbon capture and storage technologies, should take note. The commercial implications are significant, as the successful deployment of DOCCS could open new avenues for carbon offsetting and mitigation strategies. However, the potential environmental impacts must be thoroughly understood and managed to ensure the technology’s acceptance and scalability.
Hooper and his team’s research is a call to action for further studies. “Understanding the potential risks and benefits to marine ecosystems from discharge of low-DIC and high-pH seawater is critical,” Hooper emphasizes. As the world grapples with the challenges of climate change, such studies are invaluable in guiding policy, technology development, and public perception.
In the broader context, this research could shape future developments in the field of carbon capture and storage. It underscores the need for a balanced approach that considers both the potential benefits and the environmental impacts of emerging technologies. As the energy sector continues to evolve, such insights will be instrumental in driving sustainable and responsible innovation.
The study, “Removal of dissolved inorganic carbon from seawater for climate mitigation: potential marine ecosystem impacts,” was published in the journal “Frontiers in Climate,” which translates to “Frontiers in Climate” in English. This research serves as a reminder that as we venture into uncharted territories of climate mitigation, a thorough understanding of the potential consequences is paramount.