Scientists revive controversial geoengineering technique to encourage the ocean to absorb more CO2

A research consortium plans to revive iron fertilisation, a geoengineering technique used to combat climate change by promoting phytoplankton blooms that absorb carbon dioxide. The initiative, led by Exploring Ocean Iron Solutions (ExOIS), aims to raise $160m for the project as it bids to seed 10,000 sq km of the Pacific Ocean with iron by 2026, triggering phytoplankton growth that pulls CO2 from the air. Previous trials were halted due to public backlash and environmental concerns, but ExOIS promises detailed monitoring and environmental safeguards. Critics worry about potential harm to marine ecosystems, but proponents see it as a necessary step to address the climate crisis. (Scientific American)