Southern Ocean showing 'remarkable' revival in carbon absorption ability
by Emma Howard from on (#M1Z4)
Unexpected findings show oceans' potential to absorb CO2 fluctuates more over time than previously thought, researchers say
The Southern Ocean, which acts as one of the natural world's most effective sponges for absorbing carbon dioxide, is showing signs of an unexpected revival in its ability to do so, according to scientists.
The oceans absorb around a quarter of emissions caused by human activities, such as the burning of fossil fuels, reducing the speed of climate change. About 40% of this occurs in the Southern Ocean, which surrounds the Antarctic, making it the planet's strongest ocean carbon sink.
