Researchers have discovered that the weathering of organic carbon has intensified the warming process caused by volcanic carbon dioxide (CO2). This means Earth has experienced more warming than if only the volcanic gas had been released. Bob Hilton, a key researcher, explained that their findings clarify previous puzzling observations regarding climate change.
However, colleague Rugenstein expressed doubts about the scale of CO2 produced during this process. He believes the estimates may be overinflated, making it hard to accept that the carbon emissions from weathering are as significant as suggested. This raises questions about the commonly accepted theory that silicate mineral weathering reduces atmospheric CO2, effectively serving as a climate “thermostat.”
Hilton confirmed that silicate weathering remains vital but suggested that it needs to compensate for the new findings regarding organic carbon. Rugenstein added that while organic carbon weathering may enhance warming, silicate weathering must become even more effective to manage climate change.
The relationship between these weathering processes hinges on the availability of organic material. Rugenstein noted that eventually, the supply of organic carbon could be exhausted, limiting its impact. In contrast, silicate minerals are plentiful, making them a more effective long-term solution for reducing CO2 levels.
The study indicates that organic carbon weathering might influence future warming events—possibly including current climate issues. Hilton projects that this process could gradually add CO2 to the atmosphere in the coming centuries, slightly worsening the impact of human activities on climate change.
