NICHA’s
OAE – Ocean Alkalinity Enhancement

Ocean Alkalinity Enhancement (OAE) is a nature-aligned climate solution that increases the alkalinity of seawater to strengthen the ocean’s natural capacity to absorb and store atmospheric CO₂. By enhancing the carbonate–bicarbonate buffering system, OAE accelerates geochemical pathways that naturally regulate global carbon cycles. NICHA OAE utilizes a clean alkaline carbonate solution produced by the NICHA CCUS and DAC systems—completely free from hazardous chemicals—to safely neutralize localized ocean acidity and convert dissolved CO₂ into stable bicarbonate ions. This approach helps restore marine ecosystems while delivering measurable and durable carbon dioxide removal (CDR).

How it works!

CO + OH HCO₃⁻

CO + CO² +  HO 2HCO₃⁻

Results:

• Reduced ocean acidity

• Increased bicarbonate ions (HCO₃⁻)

NICHA OAE Process

1) Carbonate Solution Preparation (CCUS/DAC)

2) Seawater Pre-Assessment: pH, Alkalinity, Temperature, Salinity

3) Controlled Addition: continuous low-dose, high-mixing areas

4) MRV: pH tracking, alkalinity, CDR validation

Benefits

• Reduces ocean acidity safely

• Enhances CO uptake

• Supports marine restoration

• No hazardous chemicals

• Natural-process based

• Eligible for CDR credits

Applications

• Estuaries

• Aquaculture zones

• Coral reef areas

• Acidification-affected regions