Seeding the Pacific with Iron to Capture Carbon
Scientists are proposing to add iron to the Pacific Ocean to enhance its ability to capture carbon dioxide from the atmosphere. In a study published in Frontiers in Climate, researchers argue that ocean iron fertilization (OIF) could be a scalable, low-cost method to combat climate change. The non-profit Exploring Ocean Iron Solutions (ExOIS) has laid out a plan to measure how much CO2 this technique could absorb, with trials potentially starting by 2026 across 10,000 square kilometers of the northeast Pacific.
How Iron Boosts Carbon Capture in Oceans
Ocean iron fertilization works by releasing small amounts of iron into the ocean’s surface, stimulating the growth of phytoplankton. These marine plants capture carbon through photosynthesis, and when they die or are consumed, some of that carbon sinks into the deep ocean, where it can remain for centuries. While the ocean already receives iron naturally through dust and volcanic ash, OIF aims to accelerate this process, leveraging the ocean’s massive potential for carbon storage.
The Controversy Behind Ocean Iron Fertilization
OIF has faced public opposition due to potential risks to marine ecosystems. The technique was banned for commercial use in 2013 under the London Protocol after a controversial experiment where an entrepreneur dumped iron into the ocean to boost salmon populations. Critics worry that adding iron could create harmful algal blooms, depleting oxygen and damaging marine life. Although some studies suggest OIF could capture billions of tonnes of CO2, there are concerns about unintended ecological consequences, such as nutrient depletion for other organisms.
Pacific Ocean Trials and Monitoring
ExOIS plans to closely monitor the environmental impact of OIF trials using advanced computer models and field studies. The organization aims to gather data to determine if the method is viable for large-scale use in carbon dioxide removal. They stress that these studies must be more extensive than past experiments, ensuring any potential harm is temporary, as the iron will naturally dilute back into the ocean over time.
Public Engagement and Responsible Implementation
To move forward with OIF, ExOIS emphasizes the need for public involvement and transparency, especially with communities historically excluded from ocean-related decision-making. The organization acknowledges that without appropriate checks and collaboration, governments and the public may resist the method due to its potential risks. Engaging in open discussions about the responsible implementation of OIF will be crucial in advancing this controversial carbon-capture technique.
SOURCE: Ref Image from Scientific American
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