Una nueva forma de “greenwashing”: el cultivo de algas para combatir el cambio climático

Scientists are warning against a deceptive strategy termed "BlueWashing," in which companies promote sinking cultivated seaweed in the ocean as a viable carbon capture solution. Despite significant investment driven by the potential to generate carbon credits, experts argue that this approach lacks scientific evidence and a sustainable foundation. The practice relies on exaggerated claims about the permanence and efficacy of the sequestration, serving primarily as marketing rather than a genuine environmental remedy. The economic logic behind these projects is fundamentally flawed because the value of carbon credits is negligible compared to the actual market value of algae. This discrepancy makes the practice financially unattractive for achieving real climate impact, revealing it as a speculative venture rather than a practical mitigation strategy. Furthermore, the ecological consequences of dumping large quantities of biomass into the deep ocean are poorly understood and potentially harmful, posing risks to marine ecosystems without delivering the promised climate benefits. This article highlights greenwashing by exposing how a pseudoscientific narrative is used to justify environmentally risky actions under the guise of sustainability. Instead of exploiting algae for carbon offsetting, researchers urge focusing on their intrinsic bioeconomic value and proper utilization. Recognizing this distinction is crucial to prevent companies from using misleading environmental claims to maintain their green image while ignoring more effective, transparent solutions for combating climate change.

Source: elmostrador.cl
Published on 2024-03-22