Ocean dumping – or climate solution? An industry bets on the ocean to capture carbon

ABC News - Mar 21st, 2025
Open on ABC News

In Halifax, Nova Scotia, Planetary Technologies is utilizing oceans for carbon capture by pumping a magnesium oxide slurry into the sea, aiming to absorb carbon dioxide and combat global warming. Supported by a $1 million grant from Elon Musk's foundation and competing for a larger $50 million prize, Planetary is part of an emerging industry exploring ocean-based solutions for climate change. This initiative, although promising, is met with skepticism due to its potential environmental risks and the unregulated nature of carbon credits, which fund these efforts.

The broader context reveals an urgent need for innovative solutions as traditional emission reductions alone fall short in climate models. However, these ocean experiments face challenges from local communities and scientists, who express concerns about ecological impacts and the efficacy of such large-scale interventions. While the potential for significant carbon sequestration exists, questions about scalability, environmental safety, and long-term effectiveness remain pivotal as companies like Planetary navigate the complex landscape of climate innovation and regulation.

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RATING

7.2
Fair Story
Consider it well-founded

The article provides a comprehensive overview of the emerging field of ocean-based carbon removal, focusing on the efforts of Planetary Technologies and the broader industry. It effectively balances the perspectives of proponents and critics, offering readers a nuanced understanding of the potential benefits and risks associated with these projects. The story is timely and relevant, addressing critical issues related to climate change and environmental innovation. While the article is generally clear and well-structured, it could benefit from greater transparency regarding methodologies and more direct citations of scientific studies to enhance its accuracy and credibility. Overall, the article serves as an informative and engaging piece that contributes to the ongoing conversation about climate solutions.

RATING DETAILS

7
Accuracy

The article presents a detailed account of Planetary Technologies' efforts in using magnesium oxide to absorb carbon dioxide in the ocean. It accurately describes the company's funding from Elon Musk's foundation and its participation in a $50 million prize competition. The story also correctly outlines the general concept of ocean-based carbon removal and the industry's growth. However, some claims, such as the exact environmental impact of magnesium oxide and the potential scalability of these projects, require verification through scientific studies and expert opinions. The article mentions an audit by the UK's Environment Agency, which found a 'very low' risk to marine life, but this statement should be supported by direct references to the audit for greater accuracy.

8
Balance

The article provides a balanced view by including perspectives from both proponents and critics of ocean-based carbon removal. It cites experts like Adina Paytan and David Santillo, who express concerns about the rapid implementation and potential environmental impacts. The story also quotes industry leaders like Will Burt and Tom Green, who advocate for the urgency of these projects. This balance of viewpoints helps the reader understand the complexity of the issue and the ongoing debates within the scientific and environmental communities.

8
Clarity

The article is well-structured and clearly presents the main points, making it accessible to a general audience. It effectively explains complex scientific concepts, such as carbon capture and the role of magnesium oxide, in straightforward language. The use of quotes from experts and industry leaders adds clarity and depth to the discussion. However, some sections could benefit from more detailed explanations or definitions of technical terms to ensure full comprehension by readers unfamiliar with the subject matter.

7
Source quality

The article references credible sources, including scientists and experts from reputable institutions such as the University of California, Santa Cruz, and the Woods Hole Oceanographic Institution. It also mentions the involvement of well-known organizations like Greenpeace Research Laboratories and the National Academies of Sciences, Engineering, and Medicine. However, the article could benefit from more direct citations of scientific studies or reports to strengthen the credibility of the claims made. Additionally, while it mentions funding from Elon Musk's foundation, it does not provide details on the foundation's criteria or the nature of its involvement, which could affect perceived impartiality.

6
Transparency

The article provides some context about the motivations behind ocean-based carbon removal projects and the industry's funding mechanisms, such as carbon credits. However, it lacks detailed explanations of the methodologies used in these projects and the specific criteria for success. The story mentions concerns about the rapid pace of implementation and potential environmental risks, but it does not delve deeply into the scientific basis for these concerns or the specific data supporting them. Greater transparency about the methodologies and potential conflicts of interest, especially regarding funding sources, would enhance the article's reliability.

Sources

  1. https://www.sccwrp.org/news/evaluation-of-carbon-dioxide-removal-technology-to-shed-light-on-possible-solution-for-climate-change/
  2. https://abc7.com/seachange-ucla-climate-change-ocean/13216015/
  3. https://news.mit.edu/2023/carbon-dioxide-out-seawater-ocean-decorbonization-0216
  4. https://www.einnews.com/pr_news/674346128/carbon-capture-startups-dive-for-climate-solutions-in-the-ocean
  5. https://www.weforum.org/stories/2024/10/direct-ocean-capture-carbon-removal-technology/