Will melting glaciers slow climate change? A prevailing theory is on shaky ground
For scientists who study the Southern Ocean, a long-standing silver lining in the gloomy forecast of climate change has been the theory of iron fertilization. As temperatures rise and glaciers in Antarctica melt, ice-trapped iron would feed blooms of microscopic algae, pulling heat-trapping carbon d...
February 26, 2026105 views
Image: Phys.org
For scientists who study the Southern Ocean, a long-standing silver lining in the gloomy forecast of climate change has been the theory of iron fertilization. As temperatures rise and glaciers in Antarctica melt, ice-trapped iron would feed blooms of microscopic algae, pulling heat-trapping carbon dioxide from the atmosphere as they grow. There's just one problem: The theory doesn't hold water.
Be the first to receive the latest news, market analysis and updates — delivered straight to your inbox.
We value your privacy
We use cookies to run this site and, with your consent, to measure
traffic and improve our content. Necessary cookies are always on. You
can accept all cookies or choose which ones to allow.
Privacy policy.