Ocean acidification, driven by absorbed atmospheric CO₂, is one of the gravest planetary threats. In 2020, researchers began unveiling experimental approaches known as Ocean Alkalinity Enhancement (OAE) — a potential macro-scale solution.

How OAE Works

By adding alkaline substances (like crushed olivine, magnesium hydroxide, or calcium compounds) to ocean waters, scientists increase pH and boost the ocean’s natural capacity to absorb CO₂.

The Scientific Logic

• Oceans absorb ~25% of human CO₂
• Acidification undermines coral reefs, shellfish, and plankton.
• Increasing alkalinity enhances long-term CO₂

Early Experimental Approaches

• Coastal enhanced weathering
• Electrochemical alkalinity generation
• Alkaline mineral dispersal
• Artificial upwelling systems

Risks & Governance

OAE poses serious questions:

• Ecological side effects
• Local vs global impacts
• International ocean regulation
• Monitoring and verification standards

The Legacy

OAE represents humanity’s first attempt to modulate Earth’s geochemical systems deliberately — a planetary-scale intervention that could become a cornerstone of climate mitigation if proven safe.