A new study published in Nature Communications analyzes the Toarcian Ocean Anoxic Event from 183 million years ago to understand the complex role of rock weathering in climate regulation. Researchers found that during this volcanically triggered warming period, the erosion of organic carbon in sediments amplified global temperatures, suggesting a similar positive feedback loop could impact modern climate change.
Background
Earth scientists have long understood that rock weathering removes CO2 from the atmosphere, acting as a long-term climate regulator, but recent evidence suggests erosion can also release CO2 through the oxidation of organic carbon.
- Source
- Ars Technica
- Published
- Jun 26, 2026 at 10:41 PM
- Score
- 7.0 / 10