What if we can slow climate change by giving the ocean an antacid? It’s called ocean alkalinity enhancement and it’s exactly what researchers have been exploring for the last five years. But it’s only recently that the idea has become a reality. Supporters of the technology say it’s one of the most promising forms of carbon removal to date, a necessary step to meet climate goals even as the world cuts emissions. But in order to truly make a dent in the accumulated carbon in our atmosphere, it will need to be scaled up to massive levels – the question is, can it be done? And can it be done affordably? Jaime Palter, an associate professor of oceanography at the University of Rhode Island, joins The Excerpt to discuss the science and potential of this exciting new weapon in the fight against climate change.

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