Ocean geoengineering trial finds no evidence of harm to marine life

image via New Scientist

February 27, 2026, 11:08 AM

• •A ship-based alkalinity enhancement experiment was conducted in the Gulf of Maine.
• •The trial involved the release of alkaline sodium hydroxide.
• •Up to 10 tonnes of CO2 were removed from the atmosphere.
• •No significant impact on marine life was observed.
• •The team is still evaluating the net CO2 removal considering emissions from manufacturing and transportation.

Researchers conducted a trial in the Gulf of Maine, releasing 65,000 liters of sodium hydroxide to test its impact on carbon dioxide absorption and marine life. The experiment successfully removed up to 10 tonnes of CO2 from the atmosphere without causing harm to wildlife, with estimates suggesting a potential removal of up to 50 tonnes. The team is still assessing the emissions related to the experiment's manufacturing and transportation to determine the net CO2 removal. This research is vital due to ocean acidification and the need for non-commercial trials in this emerging field.

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