Ocean’s cool thin surface skin boosts carbon uptake

New research, partially funded by ESA and published in Nature Geoscience, reveals that the ocean’s cool “skin” – a 0.01 mm surface layer – boosts carbon absorption by approximately 7% annually. Using in situ measurements from the RSS Discovery, scientists confirmed that the cooler skin layer increases CO2 uptake, an effect previously underestimated. This additional absorption equates to 1.5 times the carbon sequestered by Amazon forest growth annually. The findings could improve global carbon assessments and inform emission-reduction policies. Researchers emphasise the ocean’s vital role in regulating climate, with implications for more accurate carbon flux models amid intensifying climate change. (ESA)