The Woods Hole Oceanographic Institution (WHOI) is preparing to launch a field trial of Ocean Alkalinity Enhancement (OAE) off the coast of Massachusetts, specifically in the Wilkinson Basin, during the summer of 2025. This project, known as LOC-NESS, seeks to evaluate OAE as a method for removing carbon dioxide from the atmosphere.
The trial will involve the release of approximately 17,000 gallons of sodium hydroxide into the ocean. This action is intended to temporarily boost the water's ability to absorb atmospheric CO₂. The Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) has approved the necessary permits following a thorough review.
Local communities, including fishing communities, have voiced their concerns. WHOI has conducted extensive outreach to address these worries. The findings from this trial will contribute to future OAE research and its potential in the fight against climate change.