A startup in Nova Scotia is currently experimenting with a technique to capture and store additional carbon in the ocean. They are utilizing a new pilot facility to validate this approach.
The ocean has been a significant repository for excess carbon dioxide, absorbing approximately 30% of all human-induced carbon emissions since the 1980s. pHathom, the company behind this initiative, aims to enhance this process by capturing carbon dioxide and transforming it into a form suitable for secure storage in the ocean for thousands of years.
The company plans to conduct tests at the Huntsman Marine Science Centre in St. Andrews, N.B., to demonstrate the safety and efficacy of their method. The CEO, Kimberly Gilbert, emphasized the importance of proving the local solution’s safety to address the global issue of climate change.
Their method involves replicating a natural process where raindrops absorb carbon dioxide from the atmosphere, becoming slightly acidic. Through interaction with alkaline rock like limestone, the carbon dioxide is converted into bicarbonate, which can then be stored in the ocean for extended periods, effectively reducing carbon dioxide levels in the atmosphere.
pHathom’s approach includes exposing seawater to the exhaust from a biomass power plant to increase acidity, mixing it with limestone particles to convert carbon dioxide to bicarbonate, and returning it to the ocean with the same pH level as normal seawater.
Several companies in Nova Scotia are exploring similar carbon removal techniques under the umbrella of alkalinity enhancement. pHathom’s method is distinguished by its use of concentrated carbon dioxide, enhancing efficiency and allowing for direct measurement of environmental impacts.
The pilot project aims to capture 0.1 tonnes of carbon dioxide per day, contributing to a better understanding of the method’s effects on marine life. If successful, pHathom plans to expand operations with a second test site in Nova Scotia, integrating their reactor into a facility transitioning to a biomass system.
While the technology shows promise, scaling up carbon removal methods remains a challenge, as highlighted by experts in the field. However, ongoing research and development efforts are crucial to addressing the climate crisis and transitioning away from fossil fuels.
Despite recent policy changes affecting carbon pricing in Canada, optimism remains high among industry players like Gilbert, who believe that advancing technologies and evolving environmental priorities will eventually drive global action towards sustainable solutions.