To maintain oceanic uptake of CO2 in the context of the LAPSSET (Lamu Port-South Sudan-Ethiopia Transport) Corridor project, which involves the development of infrastructure and ports along the coastline of Kenya, several measures should be considered:

1. Minimize Pollution: Implement strict regulations and monitoring mechanisms to prevent pollution from construction activities, port operations, and shipping traffic. Pollution can harm marine ecosystems and disrupt oceanic uptake of CO2.
2. Protect Coastal Ecosystems: Preserve and protect mangroves, seagrasses, and coral reefs along the coastline. These ecosystems play a crucial role in sequestering carbon dioxide and supporting marine biodiversity.
3. Sustainable Transport: Encourage the use of cleaner and more sustainable modes of transport, such as electric vehicles, biofuels, and improved logistics to reduce carbon emissions from transportation activities.
4. Carbon Offsetting: Implement carbon offsetting initiatives to counteract the greenhouse gas emissions generated by the development and operation of the LAPSSET Corridor project. This could include investing in renewable energy projects or supporting reforestation efforts.
5. Monitoring and Research: Conduct regular monitoring and research to understand the impacts of the LAPSSET Corridor project on oceanic uptake of CO2 and marine ecosystems. This information can inform adaptive management strategies and help mitigate any negative effects on the environment.

By incorporating these measures into the planning and implementation of the LAPSSET Corridor project, it is possible to support the continued oceanic uptake of CO2 and promote the sustainable development of coastal and marine environments.

Approximately 30% of CO2 emissions are absorbed by the world’s oceans. This absorption occurs through a process called oceanic uptake, where CO2 is dissolved in seawater and converted into carbonic acid. This process helps to mitigate the effects of climate change by reducing the amount of CO2 in the atmosphere.

Oceanic uptake of CO2 occurs through a series of physical and chemical processes. When CO2 from the atmosphere comes into contact with the surface of the ocean, it dissolves in seawater to form carbonic acid (H2CO3). The carbonic acid then dissociates into carbonate ions (CO3^2-) and bicarbonate ions (HCO3^-). These carbonate and bicarbonate ions are then used by marine organisms, such as phytoplankton and corals, to build their calcium carbonate shells and skeletons.

Additionally, some of the dissolved CO2 undergoes a chemical reaction with seawater, forming bicarbonate ions. This reaction helps to buffer the pH of seawater, preventing it from becoming too acidic.

Overall, oceanic uptake of CO2 is a crucial mechanism that helps to regulate the Earth’s carbon cycle and mitigate the impacts of rising CO2 levels in the atmosphere.

Enhancing CO2 Ocean uptake CDR techniques