By Carbon to Sea Initiative
Carbon to Sea is pleased to share a draft of the first-ever, comprehensive Ocean Alkalinity Enhancement (OAE) Environmental Impact Monitoring Framework for OAE field research. Developed in partnership between PML Applications and the Carbon to Sea Initiative, this framework aims to provide essential guidance for researchers, regulators, funders, industry stakeholders, and the public on how to evaluate the environmental impacts of OAE approaches during field research.
Recognizing the significant potential of OAE as a carbon dioxide removal (CDR) solution, this framework extends existing codes of conduct for ocean-based CDR (oCDR) researchers. As oCDR and OAE research projects begin to move from the lab to field trials — an essential step to rigorously evaluate how these approaches work in real-world conditions — this framework defines specific environmental monitoring needs and considerations for OAE field trials. This document aims to promote human and environmental safety, transparency, and accountability across the fast-growing oCDR community.
The framework is structured around a phased and gated approach, allowing OAE projects to scale up gradually, as knowledge grows and potential risks are mitigated. It draws from established environmental standards, government regulations, lessons from past field trials, and community best practices.
Following revisions based on feedback from two closed comment groups, we are now opening this vital document for its first public review and comment period. The public comment period will be open from Monday, October 27, 2025 to Friday, December 12, 2025. Feedback from a broad range of practitioners and other stakeholders is invaluable as we collectively work towards robust and responsible evaluation of OAE. Public comments and resolutions will be published on the Carbon to Sea website alongside the final version of the framework — which will also be updated periodically to reflect ongoing sector knowledge and progress.
To view the full draft framework and submit a comment, please follow this link by Friday, December 12, 2025.
