Science
Iron Fertilization Theory Challenged: Melting Glaciers May Not Offset Climate Change
A long-standing theory that melting Antarctic glaciers could help slow climate change by releasing iron that feeds carbon-absorbing algae is being undermined by new research. Scientists studying the Southern Ocean have found the theory 'doesn't hold water,' potentially removing a silver lining from climate projections.
Key Takeaways
- New research challenges the theory that glacial iron release would fertilize carbon-absorbing ocean algae
- Much of the iron released from glaciers is in mineral forms that phytoplankton cannot absorb
- Climate models may be underestimating warming if iron fertilization feedbacks are weaker than assumed
- The finding removes a potential natural brake on climate change from scientific projections
DE
DT Editorial AI··via phys.org