Dumping green sand in shallow seas could let them absorb more CO2

Ocean Absorption of Carbon Dioxide

Introduction

A modelling study suggests that dumping alkaline green sand into shallow seas could increase ocean absorption of carbon dioxide by 8 per cent this century.

Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs)

1. Goal 13: Climate Action
2. Goal 14: Life Below Water

Ocean Carbon Dioxide Absorption

Oceans currently absorb almost a third of the CO₂ emitted into the atmosphere. To further enhance this process, researchers are exploring innovative methods to increase the amount of carbon dioxide absorbed by the oceans.

The Role of Olivine

Olivine, a common greenish mineral composed mainly of magnesium, iron, silicon, and oxygen, has been identified as a potential solution. By dissolving 1 gigatonne of ground-up olivine in shallow seas annually, atmospheric CO₂ levels could be reduced by 10%.

Conclusion

The use of alkaline green sand to enhance ocean absorption of carbon dioxide presents a promising opportunity to address climate change and achieve the Sustainable Development Goals. By leveraging the natural properties of minerals like olivine, we can contribute to Goal 13: Climate Action and Goal 14: Life Below Water, ultimately working towards a more sustainable future.

SDGs, Targets, and Indicators

1. SDG 13: Climate Action

   • Target 13.2: Integrate climate change measures into national policies, strategies, and planning
   • Indicator 13.2.1: Number of countries that have integrated climate change into their national policies, strategies, and planning

2. SDG 14: Life Below Water

   • Target 14.3: Minimize and address the impacts of ocean acidification
   • Indicator 14.3.1: Average marine acidity (pH) measured at agreed suite of representative sampling stations

The article addresses or connects to the following SDGs:

1. SDG 13: Climate Action – The article discusses the potential of dumping alkaline green sand into shallow seas to increase ocean absorption of carbon dioxide, which is a climate action to reduce atmospheric CO₂ levels.
2. SDG 14: Life Below Water – The article mentions that oceans take up almost a third of the CO₂ we emit into the atmosphere, highlighting the importance of addressing the impacts of ocean acidification.

Based on the article’s content, the specific targets under these SDGs can be identified as:

1. Target 13.2: Integrate climate change measures into national policies, strategies, and planning – The article discusses the potential of using olivine sands to reduce atmospheric CO₂ levels, which can be considered as an integration of climate change measures.
2. Target 14.3: Minimize and address the impacts of ocean acidification – The article emphasizes the need to boost ocean absorption of carbon dioxide to minimize the impacts of ocean acidification.

The article mentions or implies the following indicators that can be used to measure progress towards the identified targets:

1. Indicator 13.2.1: Number of countries that have integrated climate change into their national policies, strategies, and planning – The article does not explicitly mention the number of countries, but it highlights the potential of using olivine sands as a climate change measure.
2. Indicator 14.3.1: Average marine acidity (pH) measured at agreed suite of representative sampling stations – The article does not mention specific pH measurements, but it emphasizes the importance of increasing ocean absorption of carbon dioxide to address ocean acidification.

Behold! This splendid article springs forth from the wellspring of knowledge, shaped by a wondrous proprietary AI technology that delved into a vast ocean of data, illuminating the path towards the Sustainable Development Goals. Remember that all rights are reserved by SDG Investors LLC, empowering us to champion progress together.

Source: newscientist.com

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