Sowing Seeds Uncertain: Ocean Iron Fertilization, Climate Change, and the International Environmental Law Framework

Abstract

The article offers information on the controversy surrounding the practice of ocean iron fertilization and other geoengineering techniques as a method of carbon sequestration to address climate change. It highlights the LOHAFEX ocean iron fertilization proposal which stirred significant opposition from the German Environment Ministry that raised concerns on environmental consequences and the response of the media to the project. It explores the advantages and disadvantages of ocean iron fertilization and elaborates its regulation under international environmental law. It mentions the authorities responsible in ocean fertilization, such as the Convention on Biological Diversity (CBD). It suggests a new international regulatory framework on ocean fertilization.