Ocean Fertilization: Dumping Iron to Save the Climate?

Emerging Tech Debates

This podcast episode explores ocean iron fertilization as a potential climate change mitigation strategy, detailing its basis in stimulating phytoplankton growth to absorb atmospheric CO2. It discusses experimental findings, noting that while iron addition increases phytoplankton, sustained, substantial carbon export to the deep ocean remains uncertain and potentially low. The text also highlights significant environmental risks, such as nutrient depletion and oxygen loss, alongside ethical considerations regarding large-scale manipulation of marine ecosystems. The source further touches upon the evolving regulatory landscape and the diverse expert opinions surrounding this geoengineering technique.