Successful adoption of any new technology or innovation seldom relies on its function, engineering, or design alone. Some level of public awareness and acceptance is needed for the uptake of any new technology; technologies associated with marine carbon dioxide removal (mCDR) are not an exception. To gain approval for field tests, which are a critical method of research, practitioners will need some level of public acceptance.

Perception of CDR, particularly mCDR, is multifaceted and evolving, and conversations around mCDR have increased significantly in the past couple of years (Cox et al. 2024). While there is growing recognition of the urgent need for CDR solutions to address climate change, alongside rapid and deep decarbonization, the perception of mCDR remains mixed among various stakeholders including policymakers, decision-makers, and the public.  Addressing public concerns, fostering transparent communication, and engaging stakeholders in decision-making processes are essential for building public trust and acceptance of mCDR research and testing. Collaboration among key groups and interdisciplinary approaches are essential for navigating these complexities and ensuring that mCDR initiatives align with sustainability goals and societal values.