Ocean Fertilisation is a geoengineering approach aimed at encouraging the growth of phytoplankton, tiny plant-like organisms in the ocean. The idea? More phytoplankton will photosynthesize more CO2, a critical greenhouse gas, thus decreasing its concentration in the atmosphere.
How Does Ocean Fertilisation Work?
Now, let's delve deeper into how this innovative carbon capture method works:
Fertilisation: Nutrients, primarily iron, are added to the surface of the ocean. Iron is a micronutrient often in short supply in the sea, yet it's vital for phytoplankton growth.
Phytoplankton Bloom: The additional iron stimulates a phytoplankton bloom. These microscopic plants, like their land-based counterparts, absorb CO2 as they grow.
Carbon Sink Creation: When this phytoplankton die or are eaten, they sink into the deep ocean. Here, the carbon they contain is effectively sequestered, potentially for hundreds or even thousands of years.
Riding the Wave: Companies and Projects Exploring Ocean Fertilisation
Although ocean fertilisation is a relatively nascent field, a few brave explorers have ventured into these waters:
Planktos Science: This company has conducted several ocean iron fertilisation experiments, investigating the method's potential and viability.
Climos: Another company that's researched ocean fertilisation, Climos advocates for comprehensive study and careful regulation of this approach.
Riding the Wave or in Over Our Heads?
Ocean fertilisation certainly sounds promising. It's potentially low-cost and could, theoretically, sequester gigatons of CO2 each year. It also provides a helping hand to marine life - phytoplankton are at the base of the ocean food chain and their prosperity could bolster marine ecosystems.
However, the waters are also murky with challenges and potential drawbacks:
Ecological Impact: Messing with ecosystems can have unexpected and far-reaching impacts. Could we accidentally create harmful algal blooms? What's the impact on other marine life?
Regulation: Currently, ocean fertilisation is heavily regulated due to its potential for unforeseen ecological consequences. Any large-scale projects would require careful governance.
Efficiency: While ocean fertilisation could sequester CO2, there's debate over how much carbon actually ends up in deep water versus being re-released into the atmosphere.
Like all forms of geoengineering, ocean fertilisation is a contentious issue. It's a potentially powerful tool for carbon capture, but one that must be wielded with great caution and care.
As we navigate the stormy seas of climate change, we must consider all our options and respect the immense power and complexity of Mother Nature's ecosystems.
