01-05 December 2025
INCOIS, Hyderabad, India.
| Abstract Submission No. | ABS-04-0087 |
| Title of Abstract | Marine Carbon Dioxide Removal (mCDR) in the Indian Seas: Current Understanding, Regional Opportunities, and Future Directions |
| Authors | Sumit S. Sonar*, Susmita Raulo, Suchismita Srichandan, Dhanya M. Lal, Sanjiba K. Baliarsingh, Alakes Samanta, Sudheer Joseph, T.M. Balakrishnan Nair |
| Organisation | Indian National Centre for Ocean Information Services, Hyderabad |
| Address | Pragathi Nagar Hyderabad Hyderabad, Telangana, India Pincode: 500090 E-mail: ss.sonar-rf@incois.gov.in |
| Country | India |
| Presentation | Oral |
| Abstract | As the global community confronts the escalating threat of climate change driven by anthropogenic greenhouse gas emission, carbon dioxide removal (CDR) has emerged as an essential strategy to complement emissions reductions and achieve net-zero goals. Marine Carbon Dioxide Removal (mCDR), which leverages the ocean⿿s natural carbon uptake processes, is gaining increasing attention for its vast sequestration potential. Despite the ocean absorbing a significant quantum of anthropogenic CO⿿ emissions, rising emissions are outpacing its natural buffering capacity. This paper synthesizes current understanding of mCDR approaches, including biotic (e.g., seaweed cultivation, ocean fertilization), abiotic (e.g., ocean alkalinity enhancement), and physical (e.g., artificial upwelling and downwelling) techniques, and evaluates their applicability to the Indian Seas, a region characterized by unique monsoon-driven dynamics, stratified biogeochemistry, and large CO⿿ outgassing. Drawing upon observational programs, model simulations, and ecosystem-specific assessments, the study highlights opportunities for regionally adapted mCDR deployment, such as macroalgal farming, mangrove restoration, and pilot-scale alkalinity enhancement in semi-enclosed coastal systems. It also discusses technical, ecological, and governance challenges, including monitoring uncertainties, regulatory gaps, and community engagement needs. Strategic recommendations are offered to integrate mCDR into India⿿s climate policy, blue economy goals, and international climate commitments. Ultimately, the paper argues for India⿿s leadership in shaping inclusive, evidence-based marine climate solutions while ensuring environmental integrity, social equity, and scientific transparency in mCDR development and deployment. |
| Are you part of IIOE-2 endorsed project | no |
| Keywords | Marine CO2 Removal, Indian seas, Blue Carbon, Seaweed Farming, Ocean Alkalinity, Artificial Upwelling-Downwelling, Climate Mitigation |
| For Awards | no |