Fugro to Lead Development of Safety Standards for Ocean-Based Carbon Removal

Key Impact Points:

• Fugro will develop a standardized Environmental Impact Assessment Framework for marine carbon dioxide removal (mCDR) projects, selected by nonprofit Ocean Visions.
• The two-year initiative aims to support responsible mCDR deployment through evidence-based environmental review processes.
• Final framework to be published in 2027 and made publicly available to guide researchers, regulators, and coastal communities.

Fugro to Develop First-Ever mCDR Environmental Impact Standards

Fugro has been tapped by Ocean Visions to lead the development of a standardized Environmental Impact Assessment Framework for marine carbon dioxide removal (mCDR) technologies—advancing a critical area of climate innovation focused on the ocean’s capacity to store carbon.

The initiative, announced by Ocean Visions, supports global efforts to ensure mCDR solutions are implemented safely and effectively as a complement to emissions reduction strategies.

Enhancing Climate Action Through Ocean Innovation

“Marine carbon dioxide removal has the potential to become a powerful tool in the fight to stop climate change—but first it must be able to pass the dual tests of safety and effectiveness,” said Brad Ack, CEO of Ocean Visions.

mCDR techniques—such as ocean alkalinity enhancement, seaweed cultivation, and direct carbon extraction from seawater—offer promising pathways to reduce atmospheric CO₂ levels. However, concerns over marine ecosystem impacts have hindered large-scale deployment.

A Global Collaboration for Safe Scaling

The two-year project will involve designing, refining, and testing a framework to assess environmental risks and benefits across multiple mCDR methods. Fugro will work alongside US-based Integral Consulting and the UK’s National Oceanography Centre.

“We’ve spent decades helping industries assess and manage environmental risks in offshore environments,” said Céline Gerson, Fugro’s Group Director for the Americas and President of Fugro USA. “Now we’re applying that expertise to help ensure mCDR is done responsibly and earns public trust.”

Framework Launch Set for 2027

The final framework will be publicly released in 2027. Ocean Visions expects it to become a cornerstone tool for stakeholders—including researchers, regulators, and local communities—tasked with evaluating mCDR projects for safety, effectiveness, and public transparency.

Related Article: Catalyzing Action for Our Ocean & Climate: World Ocean Day