Why the world needs more algae, not less
365,357 Views
2,329 Questions Answered
Best of Web
Let’s Begin…
Additional Resources for you to Explore
For a sweeping overview of the power of engineered and more natural carbon removal, check out Gabrielle Walker's "What You Need to Know About Carbon Removal."
To dig into the complexities and technical aspects of carbon capture, check out "The Reality of Carbon."
Carbon Capture
Carbon capture and storage (CCS) is an essential tool in our efforts to mitigate the impacts of climate change. It involves capturing carbon dioxide emissions from industrial processes, power plants, and other sources before they are released into the atmosphere and storing them underground or repurposing them for other uses. This technology can help reduce emissions from some of the most significant sources of greenhouse gas emissions, such as fossil fuel power plants and heavy industry, allowing us to continue using these energy sources while transitioning to a low-carbon future. While carbon capture technology is not a silver bullet and must be used in conjunction with other strategies, it has the potential to significantly reduce greenhouse gas emissions and address the urgent challenge of climate change.
Seaweed and Algae
Algae and seaweed have gained attention as potential solutions to mitigate climate change due to their ability to absorb and store carbon dioxide (CO2) from the atmosphere. They are highly efficient in converting CO2 into organic matter through photosynthesis, and some species can absorb up to 20 times more CO2 than land-based plants. Additionally, algae and seaweed can be used as renewable energy sources by producing biofuels, which can reduce the dependence on fossil fuels and their associated greenhouse gas emissions. Cultivating algae and seaweed does not require arable land or freshwater, making it a sustainable solution for food and energy production.
As with any large-scale climate solution, it's important to consider the unintended consequences of things like ocean afforestation. More research is needed to understand the impacts fully.
To dig into the complexities and technical aspects of carbon capture, check out "The Reality of Carbon."
Carbon Capture
Carbon capture and storage (CCS) is an essential tool in our efforts to mitigate the impacts of climate change. It involves capturing carbon dioxide emissions from industrial processes, power plants, and other sources before they are released into the atmosphere and storing them underground or repurposing them for other uses. This technology can help reduce emissions from some of the most significant sources of greenhouse gas emissions, such as fossil fuel power plants and heavy industry, allowing us to continue using these energy sources while transitioning to a low-carbon future. While carbon capture technology is not a silver bullet and must be used in conjunction with other strategies, it has the potential to significantly reduce greenhouse gas emissions and address the urgent challenge of climate change.
Seaweed and Algae
Algae and seaweed have gained attention as potential solutions to mitigate climate change due to their ability to absorb and store carbon dioxide (CO2) from the atmosphere. They are highly efficient in converting CO2 into organic matter through photosynthesis, and some species can absorb up to 20 times more CO2 than land-based plants. Additionally, algae and seaweed can be used as renewable energy sources by producing biofuels, which can reduce the dependence on fossil fuels and their associated greenhouse gas emissions. Cultivating algae and seaweed does not require arable land or freshwater, making it a sustainable solution for food and energy production.
As with any large-scale climate solution, it's important to consider the unintended consequences of things like ocean afforestation. More research is needed to understand the impacts fully.
About TED-Ed Best of Web
TED-Ed Best of Web are exceptional, user-created lessons that are carefully selected by volunteer teachers and TED-Ed staff.
Meet The Creators
- Video created by DW Planet A
- Lesson Plan created by TED Ed