Aquatic Carbon Capture & Sequestration

Aquatic Plants & Macroalgae as a Nature-Based Solution

Carbon dioxide (CO2) is one of the primary greenhouse gases emitted via human activity, such as fossil fuel consumption, energy use, and industrial production. However, through photosynthesis, aquatic plants & macroalgae can absorb this emitted CO2 from the air and store it within its cells. With this storage, these plants and algae act as effective 'carbon sinks' by removing CO2 from the atmosphere, a process referred to as carbon sequestration. Because of their rapid growth rates and high photosynthetic efficiency, aquatic plants & macroalgae are an economical and effective solution to the climate crisis by reducing the volume of atmospheric Co2 and its heat-trapping effects that drive climate change.

Image source: Farghali, M., Mohamed, I.M.A., Osman, A.I. et al. Seaweed for climate mitigation, wastewater treatment, bioenergy, bioplastic, biochar, food, pharmaceuticals, and cosmetics: a review. Environ Chem Lett 21, 97–152 (2023). https://doi.org/10.1007/s10311-022-01520-y

Pass NetZero's Role in Aquatic Plant Carbon Capture

At Pass NetZero, we are investing in research to determine which plant and algae species would be the most effective for local community climate resilience and economic equity. By collaborating with government leaders, community members, and research institutions like the Namibia University of Science and Technology, we provide the opportunity and resources to advance research, implementation, and product development rapidly. Additionally, we are exploring how harvested aquatic plants can be transformed into practical products, like bioplastic, bio-bricks, bio-feed, and more.

Project Objectives

Atlas Creation

For tracking and documenting various aquatic plant and macroalgae species based on selected characteristics (e.g., carbon mitigation capacity, nativity, etc.)

Knowledge Exchange

Create and expand existing knowledge-sharing networks to expedite data acquisition and collaborations with other stakeholders

Product Development

Explore best methods for transforming organic matter into durable & functional products or materials (e.g., bioplastic, bio-bricks, bio-feed, etc.)

Scalable Implementation

Through in-depth research and testing, develop methods to transform findings into real-world solutions for local and global communities