Lobsters and acidic seas: can shellfish help neutralise one of the greatest threats to the ocean?
Researchers are investigating whether adding alkalis to seawater can help oceans absorb more CO2, potentially protecting shellfish populations from acidic waters. However, the research faces uncertainty due to potential funding cuts.
Why it matters
This study addresses the intersection of climate change, ocean health, and the economic viability of the fishing industry.
Crustaceans are the subject of tests to see if alkalis added to seawater, so it absorbs more CO2, harm marine life. But Trump’s halt to funding threatens to scupper the research
About this content Thu 20 Aug 2026 10.00 EDT Share Prefer the Guardian on Google F or many in the US region of New England, the lobster roll is synonymous with summertime. Loaded into a toasted bun, chunks of the sweet meat are served hot and soaked in butter, or chilled and slathered in mayonnaise with celery and herbs.
The only thing more debated than the recipe is the price: the once-humble roll now routinely fetches $30 (£22), or even $50, in a sign of the changing times – and seas.
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