Phytoplankton Carbon Solutions — A Prioritized research framework to investigate carbon dioxide removal potential and inform decision making
Ocean Visions | April 2026
About this report
This report was commissioned to (1) assess the current state of knowledge and activities for open ocean phytoplanktoni -based carbon removal approaches (including ocean iron fertilization), (2) identify remaining critical uncertainties and knowledge gaps about their efficacy and safety, and (3) suggest key actions and research priorities to close knowledge gaps to facilitate future decision making. The findings and recommendations are based on a combination of literature and white paper reviews, workshops, and numerous expert consultations. The work was guided by an international Advisory Board. A draft report was made available for open public comment in October 2025, and public feedback was integrated into this final report.
