Geoengineering : ocean iron fertilisation and the law of the sea

Climate change mitigation is one the greatest challenges facing humankind. Recent attempts at reducing carbon emissions have stalled. Various proposals have been made that aim to reduce the levels of atmospheric carbon dioxide through geoengineering. One such technique is ocean iron fertilisation. This paper examines the current state of international law surrounding geoengineering practices involving the sea, with a predominant focus on ocean iron fertilisation, to evaluate the law’s appropriateness and effectiveness at regulating this conduct. This paper concludes that the current law lacks certainty and clarity. It proposes that the law would be more effective through a legally binding amendment to the London Convention and Protocol, stronger domestic legislation and the removal of economic incentives.