New York:The ocean's ability to absorb carbon dioxide is being compromised as climate change progresses, according to a new report by the United Nations. The ocean, which currently absorbs about 30% of human-caused CO2 emissions and 90% of excess heat from greenhouse gases, has seen a reduction in its carbon absorption capacity by approximately six percent.
According to Emirates News Agency, the report was a collaborative effort between the United Nations Environment Programme (UNEP) and the UN Framework Convention on Climate Change (UNFCCC), co-organizers of the upcoming COP31 climate conference. Lead author Sara Traerup highlighted the significant climate service performed by the ocean, which is now under increasing pressure due to rising temperatures and changes in ocean chemistry and ecosystems.
The report warns that the weakening of the ocean’s ability to absorb and store carbon could accelerate in the future. A significant challenge identified is the lack of reliable ocean monitoring data, especially in critical regions like the Southern and Indian Oceans, the Arctic, and coastal areas.
To address these challenges, the report calls for enhanced 'ocean carbon intelligence,' which involves leveraging science, technology, and local knowledge to better manage ocean carbon systems. UNEP examined three main types of ocean climate technologies ocean monitoring systems, blue carbon ecosystems like mangroves and seagrasses, and marine carbon dioxide removal techniques.
Ocean monitoring technologies are deemed the most mature and immediately necessary, while blue carbon ecosystems offer significant carbon sequestration and additional ecological benefits. Marine carbon dioxide removal remains uncertain and requires further research and regulation. Traerup cautioned against relying solely on ocean-based technologies, emphasizing the importance of combining them with emissions reductions and ecosystem protection.