2023-12-14 12:41:00
Our planet’s oceans play a crucial role in absorbing carbon dioxide (CO2), acting as the main “carbonium sink.” According to recent studies, these blue giants are even more efficient than previously thought, with a carbon storage capacity 20% higher than previous estimates.
The Oceans: Key in the Fight Against Climate Change
A surprising discovery: Increase in carbon absorption capacity.
Researchers from the French CNR have revealed, in a study published in the journal Nature, that The oceans can store approximately 15 billion tons of carbon annually.
This figure exceeds the 11 billion tons previously estimated by the Intergovernmental Panel on Climate Change (IPCC) in its 6th report of 2021.
The Role of Plankton and “Marine Snow” in Carbon Absorption
The process of carbon absorption in the oceans is fascinating.
Plankton plays a vital role by devouring CO2 and converting it into organic tissue through photosynthesis. Upon death, the plankton descends to the bottom of the sea, decomposing into particles that form what is known as “marine snow.” These particles, denser than seawater, sink to the ocean floor, storing carbon and providing essential nutrients for a variety of marine organisms.
Although this 20% increase in the oceans’ carbon storage capacity is significant, Researchers warn that it does not represent an immediate solution to the climate crisis.
This CO2 absorption process occurs over tens of thousands of years, being insufficient to counteract the exponential increase in CO2 emissions since the industrial revolution in 1750. However, this discovery is crucial to recalibrate our understanding of the role of oceans in the long-term regulation of global climate.
This finding underscores the importance of protecting our oceans and better understanding their role in climate change mitigation..
Not only are oceans essential for marine life, they are also key players in stabilizing our planet’s climate. This knowledge reinforces the need for global policies and actions focused on the conservation and care of our oceans, vital for the future of the Earth.
More information: www.nature.com
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