What in the world is “Ocean Alkalinity Enhancement”?

USC Wrigley Institute Ballmer Postdoctoral Researcher Mohammed Hashim studies ocean alkalinity enhancement, a method that boosts the ocean’s natural ability to capture and store carbon dioxide (CO2).

As the ocean absorbs CO2 from the atmosphere, it can become more acidic, which is harmful to marine life. By increasing alkalinity—or the ability of the ocean to neutralize acids—we give it a stronger “buffer,” allowing it to safely absorb more CO2.

This research is part of the Wrigley Institute’s Climate and Carbon Management Initiative, advancing applied environmental solutions to help address climate change.