Carbon to Sea recently participated in the 2026 Capitol Hill Oceans Week in Washington, D.C., engaging policymakers and stakeholders on the role of ocean-based carbon dioxide removal (oCDR, otherwise known as marine carbon dioxide removal, or mCDR) in addressing climate change. 

In partnership with Ocean Visions, Carbon180, World Resources Institute, and Consortium for Science, Policy & Outcomes, Carbon to Sea co-hosted two panel discussions focused on the science, policy, and societal considerations shaping the future of oCDR.

During the mCDR and U.S. Policy: What Decision-Makers Need to Know panel, panelists examined how policy can support the responsible development of oCDR. Speakers — including Carbon to Sea’s Senior Manager, Policy, Priyanka Hooghan — discussed the need for greater coordination across federal agencies and highlighted the importance of building a clear framework for research, oversight, and public transparency. The conversation also explored how careful, phased research can help ensure that emerging climate solutions are safely evaluated before being deployed at larger scales.

“Being able to [proactively] develop communication with impacted and affected communities is really important for those either conducting the research or doing the field trials,” said Priyanka Hooghan, Senior Manager, Policy at Carbon to Sea.

The Marine Carbon Dioxide Removal Explained: Potential Ocean-Climate Solutions, Risks, and Community Considerations panel focused on the science behind oCDR and its potential contribution to climate goals. Panelists talked through different approaches to enhance the ocean’s natural ability to remove carbon from the atmosphere and discussed the need to scale climate technology alongside rapid emissions reductions.

Across both discussions, speakers emphasized that the future of oCDR will depend on more than scientific advancement. Building public trust, engaging communities, and developing effective governance will be essential to ensure the responsible development of oCDR.

See the full list of panelists here: https://oceanvisions.org/events/capitol-hill-ocean-week-2026/