Carbon removal crediting platform Puro.earth has launched a public consultation on a new marine CO2 removal methodology called Ocean Storage of Biomass (OSB).
This new methodology was created following a year-long exploration period, during which Puro.earth gathered input from marine carbon dioxide removal (mCDR) experts, with a special focus on biomass deployment.
The novel OSB technology represents depositing sustainable biomass into ocean basins that are permanently oxygen-depleted (anoxic), where natural seafloor conditions enable the durable storage of CO2.
Characterized by dense, stratified layers of water, these carefully selected anoxic marine zones provide an environment that effectively seals carbon-rich biomass in the deep, oxygen-depleted bottom water layer.
When the biomass is placed in scientifically verified ocean storage sites that fall within national maritime jurisdictions, the CO2 can be successfully sequestered for more than 1000 years.
Puro.earth clarifies that the methodology is limited to terrestrial biomass rich in lignin, or, in other words, plant materials that naturally resist decomposition in low-oxygen conditions.
To ensure that the carbon storage is effective and durable, the OSB methodology relies on strict criteria for site selection, based on location-specific ecological data, supported by advanced oceanographic modeling and monitoring practices.
Relevant: New Bipartisan Legislation Supports mCDR Development In The US
Additionally, the safety of operations is affirmed through scientifically robust characterization of the marine ecosystem, as well as cooperative local communication with relevant stakeholders.
This methodology aligns with a number of Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs).
Specifically, it protects the ocean and employs a sustainable approach towards its use by implementing international law as reflected in the United Nations Convention of the Sea (SDG 14.c), it reduces the adverse environmental impact of cities (SDG 11.6), and it improves the sustainability of industries (SDG 9.4).
Read more: NOAA Partners With Carbon To Sea To Release Guidelines On mCDR Data Management
Puro.earth highlights that when the requirements laid out in the methodology are followed, the negative impacts of OSB on people or the environment can be effectively avoided, minimized, or mitigated.
Interested parties can provide their feedback on the OSB methodology by February 5th, 2025.
