Oceans

Researchers conducted a trial in the Gulf of Maine, pouring 65,000 litres of sodium hydroxide into the ocean in August 2025, which removed up to 10 tonnes of carbon dioxide from the atmosphere. The experiment, the first ship-based alkalinity enhancement test, showed no significant impact on marine life. Initial findings were announced at the Ocean Sciences Meeting in Glasgow on 25 February.

February 04, 2026 由 AI 报道

A new study reveals that iron from melting West Antarctic ice does not boost algae growth as expected, potentially reducing the Southern Ocean's ability to absorb carbon dioxide. Researchers found that the iron delivered by icebergs is in a poorly usable form for marine life. This discovery challenges assumptions about how ice loss affects climate change mitigation.

A group of 160 scientists from 23 countries has declared that the widespread death of warm-water coral reefs marks Earth's first major tipping point due to climate change. This irreversible shift is driven by rising marine temperatures and ocean acidification, with half of the world's live coral cover lost in the past half century. While recovery is possible with urgent action, the report warns of escalating global risks if emissions continue unchecked.