Manipulating ocean hydrothermal systems for carbon removal

As atmospheric carbon dioxide levels exceed 400 parts per million, the need for effective carbon removal solutions intensifies. This article proposes a novel carbon dioxide removal (CDR) approach inspired by natural seafloor processes at oceanic transform faults. These tectonic settings expose reactive mantle rocks, and the article suggests deliberately enhancing low-temperature hydrothermal systems by expanding them and directing alkaline fluids to the ocean surface. This process could simultaneously counter ocean acidification and draw down atmospheric CO2. While acknowledging technical challenges and potential concerns, the article calls for further research and exploration of this transformative CDR approach. (Eos)