ocean fertilization
Ocean fertilization is a geoengineering technique aimed at enhancing the growth of phytoplankton in the ocean. This process typically involves adding nutrients, such as iron, to specific areas of the ocean to stimulate the growth of these microscopic plants. Phytoplankton play a crucial role in the marine ecosystem and are responsible for absorbing carbon dioxide from the atmosphere during photosynthesis.
The primary goal of ocean fertilization is to increase carbon sequestration, which could help mitigate climate change by reducing the amount of carbon dioxide in the atmosphere. However, this practice is controversial due to potential ecological impacts and the uncertainty of its long-term effects on marine environments.