Global Coalition Launched to Boost Marine Carbon Removal Efforts

A new international alliance has been launched to accelerate the development of marine carbon dioxide removal (mCDR), an emerging climate solution that uses the ocean to capture and store carbon.

The Marine Carbon Dioxide Removal Coalition (mCDR Coalition) brings together leading companies, nonprofits, and academic institutions to coordinate research, inform policy, and share best practices. The group has been meeting informally for nearly two years and is now expanding its membership and visibility.

Supporters say the coalition arrives at a critical moment, as global attention grows on how the ocean can help meet climate goals. Advocates argue that while cutting emissions remains essential, removing carbon already in the atmosphere will also be necessary to reach net-zero targets.

“Marine CDR approaches offer a critical opportunity to address the carbon already disrupting our climate and ocean ecosystems,” said Ben Rubin, Executive Director of the Carbon Business Council. “This coalition ensures the field grows with integrity, transparency, and community engagement.”

The launch builds on rising momentum in the sector, highlighted by recent technology milestones and international research initiatives. Proponents emphasize that when guided by science and supported with strong safeguards, marine carbon removal can complement emissions reductions and contribute meaningfully to climate action.

The coalition is co-chaired by the Carbon Business Council and the World Ocean Council, with Policy Advisor Toby Bryce serving as chair. Jill Storey, Marine CDR Advisor to the World Ocean Council, underscored the sector’s importance: “Covering 71% of the planet, the ocean offers the scale needed to achieve climate goals.”

The coalition also contributes to broader global efforts, including an EU-backed initiative to evaluate ocean-based carbon removal strategies.

Source: carbonbusinesscouncil.org