X, S. & National Geographic Pristine Seas. (2024, January 18). Team uncovers new marine source of carbon emissions into atmosphere. phys.org. https://phys.org/news/2024-01-team-uncovers-marine-source-carbon.html

 

Scientists, lead by Dr. Trisha Atwood of Utah State University and National Geographic Pristine Seas, have identified bottom trawling as a previously underestimated source of atmospheric carbon pollution. The study, undertaken by a global team of climate and ocean scientists, indicates that dragging heavy fishing nets across the ocean floor emits considerable amounts of CO2, with 55%-60% reaching the atmosphere within nine years. Bottom trawling is predicted to emit twice as much carbon as the entire world fishing fleet each year. The study focuses on specific places, such as the East China Sea, the Baltic and North Seas, and the Greenland Sea, where carbon emissions from bottom trawling are especially significant. The findings highlight the critical need to include bottom trawling in climate action strategies to reduce its influence on global warming.

The study’s findings highlight the need of including this human activity in global climate action strategies. The immediate benefits of lowering bottom trawling emissions are clear, as they not only contribute to global warming but also harm marine ecosystems, biodiversity, and cause localized ocean acidification. This article calls for immediate action to address bottom trawling, which aligns with the broader goals of environmental science by emphasizing the interconnectedness of human activities and their impact on the planet, as well as the need for policies that address the multifaceted environmental consequences of practices such as bottom trawling in order to ensure a sustainable future for both marine ecosystems and the global climate.