Klemme, Alexandra, Rixen, Tim, Müller, Moritz, Notholt, Justus and Warneke, Thorsten (2022) Destabilization of carbon in tropical peatlands by enhanced weathering. Communications Earth & Environment, 3 (1). DOI https://doi.org/10.1038/s43247-022-00544-0.

Text Rixen2022-4.pdf - Published Version Available under License Creative Commons: Attribution 4.0. Download (1MB)

Abstract

Enhanced weathering is a carbon dioxide (CO2) removal strategy that accelerates the CO2 uptake and removal from the atmosphere by weathering via the dispersion of rock powder. Warm and humid conditions enhance weathering and among the suggested target areas for enhanced weathering are tropical peatlands. However, the effect of enhanced weathering on peatland carbon stocks is poorly understood. Here, we present estimates for the response of CO2 emissions from tropical peat soils, rivers and coastal waters to changing soil acidity induced by enhanced weathering application. We estimate that the potential carbon uptake associated with enhanced weathering is reduced by 18–60% by land-based re-emission of CO2 and is potentially offset completely by emissions from coastal waters. Our findings suggest that in contrast to the desired impact, enhanced weathering may destabilize the natural carbon cycle in tropical peatlands that act as important carbon sinks and protect against coastal erosion.

Document Type:	Article
Programme Area:	PA2
Research affiliation:	Biogeochemistry and Geology > Carbon and Nutrient Cycling
Refereed:	Yes
Open Access Journal?:	Yes
DOI:	https://doi.org/10.1038/s43247-022-00544-0
ISSN:	2662-4435
Date Deposited:	17 Nov 2022 07:19
Last Modified:	17 Nov 2022 07:19
URI:	http://cris.leibniz-zmt.de/id/eprint/5043

Actions (login required)

View Item