A startup in Nova Scotia is currently conducting trials on a technique to capture and retain more carbon in the ocean. This involves utilizing a novel pilot facility to validate the concept.
The ocean already serves as a significant repository for excessive carbon dioxide, having absorbed approximately 30 percent of all carbon emissions caused by human activities since the 1980s.
pHathom, the company spearheading this initiative, aims to further mitigate emissions by capturing carbon dioxide and transforming it into a form suitable for secure long-term storage in the ocean.
The initial testing of their method will take place at the Huntsman Marine Science Centre in St. Andrews, New Brunswick, which is a non-profit organization focused on research and education.
Kimberly Gilbert, the CEO and co-founder of pHathom, emphasized the importance of demonstrating the safety and efficacy of their approach at a local level, highlighting the necessity of proving local solutions before addressing global challenges.
Their process mimics a natural phenomenon where raindrops absorb carbon dioxide from the atmosphere, becoming slightly acidic. When these raindrops interact with alkaline rocks like limestone, the carbon dioxide is converted into bicarbonate, which can then be stored in the ocean for thousands of years, effectively reducing carbon dioxide levels in the atmosphere.
By replicating this natural process in a controlled reactor setting, pHathom utilizes seawater exposed to biomass power plant emissions to convert carbon dioxide into bicarbonate by mixing it with limestone particles. The treated water, with the same pH level as regular seawater, is then reintroduced into the ocean.
The company’s method, which uses concentrated carbon dioxide, offers enhanced efficiency compared to other approaches in carbon removal. During the pilot phase, they aim to capture 0.1 tonnes of carbon dioxide daily, with a focus on observing the impact on various marine species over a three-month period.
This innovative carbon removal technology is part of a broader field known as alkalinity enhancement, with other companies in Nova Scotia exploring similar techniques. Planetary and CarbonRun are among those testing variations of this approach in the region.
Looking ahead, if the pilot phase proves successful, pHathom plans to expand its operations with a second test site in Nova Scotia next year, integrating the reactor into a building transitioning from a fossil-fuel boiler to a biomass system.
Despite the potential of these technologies, challenges such as energy consumption and scalability remain significant hurdles. However, proponents like Katja Fennel stress the importance of exploring all viable carbon removal options while emphasizing the urgent need to reduce carbon emissions and transition away from fossil fuels.
As Canada emerges as a leader in ocean alkalinity enhancement research, there are calls for government support and international collaboration to advance regulatory frameworks and implementation strategies for these innovative climate solutions.
Despite shifting policies and uncertainties in the carbon market, pHathom remains optimistic that economic and environmental imperatives will eventually drive global action towards sustainable climate solutions.