ESCI 353 - Ocean-Based Climate Solutions

1 unit(s)

Ocean-based climate solutions are being urgently explored by the US federal government and a new generation of ocean engineering start-up companies. Ideas to draw down carbon dioxide include dumping minerals in the ocean and on beaches, planting kelp forests, and restoring coastal wetlands. What are the scientific underpinnings of ocean-based climate solutions? How critical are they to mitigating climate change? And how are the risks, governance, and just implementation of these solutions being considered? This course explores the past, present, and potential future modification of the oceans by humans. To reach this goal, we ground ourselves in the basic the biology, chemistry, geology, physics, and governance of the ocean. We evaluate proposals for ocean engineering and design ways to test their risks and impacts. Along the way we consider how histories of colonialism have impacted humanity’s relationship with the ocean and now influence approaches to ocean-based climate solutions.

Prerequisite(s): One class in Earth Science at the 200 level.

Two 75-minute periods.

Not offered in 2024/25.

Course Format: CLS