Marine carbon emissions: New source found

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Marine carbon emissions: New source uncovered by team. Bottom trawling, the act of dragging a heavy fishing net across the ocean floor, is a significant source of atmospheric carbon pollution, a new study reveals. Previously unaccounted for, bottom trawling resuspend some of the carbon in the seafloor sediment, releasing it into the atmosphere. As the world works to reduce emissions from fossil fuels, deforestation, and other sources, this study highlights the need to address this previously overlooked contributor to climate change.

Keywords: Marine Carbon Emissions

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Unveiling a Hidden Source of Marine Carbon Emissions: The Impact of Bottom Trawling

In a groundbreaking study, scientists have uncovered a previously overlooked source of marine carbon emissions: bottom trawling. This fishing technique, which involves dragging heavy nets across the ocean floor, disturbs the seafloor sediment and releases carbon into the water. A significant portion of this carbon eventually makes its way into the atmosphere, contributing to global warming.

Bottom Trawling: A Major Contributor to Marine Carbon Emissions

The study, published in Frontiers in Marine Science, estimates that bottom trawling releases an amount of carbon into the atmosphere each year that is double the annual emissions from fuel combustion of the entire global fishing fleet. This startling revelation highlights the urgent need to address bottom trawling as a major source of marine carbon emissions.

The Mechanism Behind Marine Carbon Release

When bottom trawling occurs, the heavy nets stir up the seafloor sediment, releasing carbon that has been stored there for millennia. Part of this carbon turns into carbon dioxide underwater, and the study found that 55%–60% of this carbon dioxide will eventually escape into the atmosphere within nine years.

Identifying High-Emission Areas of Marine Carbon

The study also identified areas where carbon emissions from bottom trawling are particularly high. These include the East China Sea, the Baltic and North Seas, and the Greenland Sea. Additionally, Southeast Asia, the Bay of Bengal, the Arabian Sea, parts of Europe, and the Gulf of Mexico are also likely major sources of carbon emissions due to trawling, but more data is needed to confirm this.

Ocean Acidification: An Additional Concern

Besides releasing carbon into the atmosphere, bottom trawling also contributes to ocean acidification. Approximately 40%–45% of the total carbon dislodged from the ocean floor by trawling remains in the water, leading to increased acidity. This can harm plant and animal life in the affected areas.

Addressing the Problem of Marine Carbon Emissions

The findings of this study emphasize the need for immediate action to reduce carbon emissions from bottom trawling. Governments and policymakers must recognize the significance of this issue and implement regulations to limit bottom trawling activities. Additionally, promoting sustainable fishing practices and supporting research into alternative fishing methods can help mitigate the environmental impacts of bottom trawling.

Conclusion

The revelation that bottom trawling is a major source of carbon emissions and ocean acidification is a wake-up call for the world. It is imperative that we take steps to address this issue and protect our oceans and atmosphere for future generations. By working together, we can find solutions that balance the need for food production with the preservation of our marine ecosystems..

FAQ’s

1. What is bottom trawling and how does it contribute to carbon emissions?

Bottom trawling is a fishing technique that involves dragging heavy nets across the ocean floor. This disturbs the sediment and releases carbon that has been stored there for millennia. Part of this carbon turns into carbon dioxide underwater, and a significant portion of this carbon dioxide eventually escapes into the atmosphere.

2. How much carbon does bottom trawling release into the atmosphere?

The study estimates that bottom trawling releases an amount of carbon into the atmosphere each year that is double the annual emissions from fuel combustion of the entire global fishing fleet.

3. Which areas have high carbon emissions from bottom trawling?

Areas with high carbon emissions from bottom trawling include the East China Sea, the Baltic and North Seas, and the Greenland Sea. Southeast Asia, the Bay of Bengal, the Arabian Sea, parts of Europe, and the Gulf of Mexico are also likely major sources of carbon emissions due to trawling, but more data is needed to confirm this.

4. What are the environmental consequences of bottom trawling besides carbon emissions?

In addition to releasing carbon into the atmosphere, bottom trawling also contributes to ocean acidification. Approximately 40%–45% of the total carbon dislodged from the ocean floor by trawling remains in the water, leading to increased acidity. This can harm plant and animal life in the affected areas.

5. What can be done to address the issue of carbon emissions from bottom trawling?

Governments and policymakers can implement regulations to limit bottom trawling activities. Promoting sustainable fishing practices and supporting research into alternative fishing methods can also help mitigate the environmental impacts of bottom trawling.

Links to additional Resources:

1. https://www.nature.com/ 2. https://www.sciencedaily.com/ 3. https://www.smithsonianmag.com/.