Running Tide completes ‘first ever’ carbon removal credits in the open ocean

Under Running Tide’s process, 275 net metric tons of carbon dioxide were removed

US-based climate start-up Running Tide has delivered the first-ever carbon removal credits from an open ocean project, with the credits pre-sold to e-commerce group Shopify.

Some scientists believe extracting carbon dioxide by using nature or technology can help meet global goals set under the Paris Climate Agreement to curb climate change. Under Running Tide’s carbon removal process, waste wood – such as wood chips, which would otherwise have been burnt – was coated in limestone and placed in the ocean 190 miles south of Iceland. The limestone coating helps to combat ocean acidification, the company said.

The limestone-coated wood spread across the ocean’s surface and sank into the water nearly a mile deep, keeping the carbon out of the atmosphere. A total of 1,000 metric tons (MT) of waste wood was sunk throughout May, June and July, resulting in a removal of 275 net MT of carbon dioxide, Running Tide Founder Marty Odlin said.

According to Odlin, the project adhered to standards from the Scientific Advisory Board, which is made up of climate experts, including in carbon cycling, oceanography, marine ecology, forestry and carbon sequestration. It was also reviewed by an independent science review board. Odlin said the process is safe, as it adds organic matter that could already exist in the ocean.

Shopify made the advanced purchase of the Running Tide removal credits in 2020 to help fund the project’s development.

This Maine company thinks kelp buoys and oyster farming can save the ocean through carbon capture and sequestration

“Funding innovation by being a first buyer, and taking big risks with pre-payments, is exactly what’s needed to kickstart the carbon removal industry,” said Stacy Kauk, Shopify’s head of sustainability.

Shopify did not specify how much it paid for the removals. Running Tide said it currently charges U.S. $250 to $350 per ton.

@GSA_Advocate

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