A new study published in Nature Communications analyzes the Toarcian Ocean Anoxic Event to determine how rock weathering impacts climate. Researchers found that while rock weathering typically removes CO2, the oxidation of organic carbon in eroding sediments during this period amplified global warming. This suggests that similar feedback loops could exacerbate modern climate change, though the exact magnitude remains uncertain.
Background
Earth scientists have long understood that rock weathering acts as a long-term thermostat by removing CO2 from the atmosphere. However, recent research highlights a competing mechanism where erosion oxidizes organic carbon, potentially releasing CO2 and altering climate dynamics.
- Source
- Ars Technica
- Published
- Jun 26, 2026 at 10:41 PM
- Score
- 7.0 / 10