Ocean Fertilization
Ocean fertilization is a geoengineering technique aimed at combating climate change by enhancing the growth of phytoplankton in the ocean. Phytoplankton, microscopic plants, play a crucial role in absorbing carbon dioxide from the atmosphere during photosynthesis. By adding nutrients like iron to nutrient-poor areas of the ocean, researchers hope to boost phytoplankton growth, which can increase carbon capture and promote marine life. While the concept holds promise, it also raises environmental concerns, such as potential disruptions to local ecosystems and uncertainty about long-term effects.
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Ocean fertilization is a geoengineering technique aimed at enhancing the growth of phytoplankton, microscopic plants in the ocean, by adding nutrients like iron. These phytoplankton absorb carbon dioxide from the atmosphere during photosynthesis, potentially helping to combat climate change by reducing greenhouse gases. When they die, they sink to the ocean floor, sequestering carbon. While it offers potential benefits, there are concerns about ecological impacts, such as altering marine ecosystems and food chains. As a result, ocean fertilization is considered both a promising and controversial approach in climate change discussions.