Sequestration by the biological carbon pump: Do we really know what we are talking about?

Marine scientists have an alarming habit of attributing carbon sequestration to processes that really only relate to the turnover of long-lived natural carbon pools. This conflicts with the general understanding that carbon sequestration implies a potential offset to anthropogenic emissions. Without a critical re-examination of the terminology used, we run the risk of seriously damaging an informed political debate on climate action from carbon trading to marine CO₂ removal strategies, as well as undermining our credibility.