Ocean Alkalinity
Reaction of carbon dioxide with alkaline molecules occurs naturally, but because those molecules are weathered from rock or ancient shells, it happens on geologic timescales. Weathering is a slow process, and the number of alkaline molecules in the oceans is becoming limited. Researchers are now exploring the possibility of speeding the process by adding crushed minerals to beaches or directly to the ocean via ships.
The addition of alkaline minerals has the potential to remove gigatons of carbon each year. Although global leaders are working toward a carbon neutral future, researchers estimate that the only way to keep global temperature increases below 1.5 degrees Celsius and prevent a climate catastrophe is to remove carbon dioxide that’s already in the atmosphere. Ocean alkalinity enhancement is one of several promising tools that could help achieve this goal.