Ocean Alkalinity Enhancement
Ocean Alkalinity Enhancement is a process aimed at increasing the alkalinity of ocean waters to help combat ocean acidification. This phenomenon occurs when excess carbon dioxide (CO2) from the atmosphere dissolves in seawater, leading to lower pH levels and harming marine life, particularly organisms with calcium carbonate shells, like coral reefs and shellfish.
By adding alkaline substances, such as crushed minerals or lime, to the ocean, the goal is to raise the pH and improve the ocean's capacity to absorb CO2. This method not only helps protect marine ecosystems but also contributes to mitigating climate change by reducing the amount of CO2 in the atmosphere.