Abstract
Marine carbon sinks are identified as potential nature-based solutions in the second Emissions Reduction Plan released in December 2024. Although the scientific basis for marine carbon dioxide removal (mCDR) is still being established, activities are nonetheless advancing internationally and there is increasing domestic interest. Here, we introduce the fundamentals and types of mCDR to highlight the need for a national assessment that considers our unique cultural and environmental context in determining whether and how mCDR might contribute to Aotearoa New Zealand's climate response.