You are here

The satellite images analysis proves key role of giant icebergs in carbon storage

Carbon cycle

The huge in scale research based on analysis of 175 satellite images of ocean colour discovered that the giant icebergs in the Southern Ocean play key role in removing carbon dioxide from the atmosphere.


The research led by the University of Sheffield, Department of Geography, discovered that melting water from giant icebergs supports unexpectedly high levels of phytoplankton growth, which has a direct impact on carbon storage in the ocean and helps to slow global warming.


The analysis of the satellite images from 2003-2013 showed that enhanced phytoplankton growth extends hundreds of kilometres from giant icebergs.


The giant icebergs are responsible for storing up to 20% of carbon in the Southern Ocean. The Southern Ocean plays a significant part in the global carbon cycle, and is responsible for approximately 10% of the ocean's total carbon sequestration.




(Source Science Daily)

Share with: