How Do We Make an Impact with Science Illustration?

    Visualizing Carbon Capture Potential

     

    Science illustration showing how to visualize a sustainable future through carbon capture potential, by Sayo Studio.
    SayoStudio’s science illustration depicts potential ocean carbon capture technologies that may help us realize  a sustainable future.

    How can we make an impact with science illustration to advocate for a sustainable future? As science communicators, that’s a question that we have the privilege to consider and work towards. In our role as science visualizers, sometimes advocating for sustainability means illustrating the scary what-if’s (see our plastic pollution post). But on the flip side, much of our time is spent envisioning the exciting solutions that are possible with science and technology. For Science News magazine, we illustrated carbon capture technologies currently under development that may reduce global warming impacts. Read on to learn about how ocean carbon capture may help us mitigate our pollution and climate change.  

    Visualizing Carbon Capture Tech: A Step Towards Change

    GlobalWarmingPlot
    Looking at global temperature data from the last century gives us a warning of what is to come if we’re unable to curb the greenhouse gases added to our atmosphere.

    Presently, when considering climate change, the facts are stark. By 2030 the global temperature will likely have increased another 1.5 more degrees, leading to sea rise and more erratic, damaging weather (read about forest fires and climate change here). Frighteningly, we would feel the daily impacts even more if it weren’t for the buffering capacity of our oceans.

    Up to a ⅓ of human emissions are absorbed by the ocean. Scientists and engineers think that it may be possible to increase the amount of CO2 that the ocean absorbs. Ocean carbon capture technologies are a promising way to fight climate change.
    There are several different technologies, including:         

    Impact of Science Illustration Visualizing Carbon Capture Potential: Upwelling and Downwelling - Vertical ocean currents transport carbon-rich waters between surface and deep layers, stimulating biological productivity and facilitating carbon storage, illustrated by Sayo Studio.
    Upwelling and Downwelling: Vertical ocean currents transport carbon-rich waters between surface and deep layers, stimulating biological productivity and facilitating carbon storage, illustrated by Sayo Studio.
    1. Seaweed Farming: Cultivating seaweed like kelp in marine environments to absorb CO2 during photosynthesis act as natural carbon sinks.
    2. Iron Addition: Fertilizing ocean waters with iron particles to stimulate phytoplankton growth enhance carbon uptake and storage in the deep ocean. 
    3. Upwelling and Downwelling: Vertical ocean currents transport carbon-rich waters between surface and deep layers stimulate biological productivity and facilitate carbon storage.
    4. Adding Alkaline Rocks: Depositing minerals in seawater to react with CO2 form carbonate minerals that remove CO2 from the ocean aiding in long-term carbon storage.
    5. Direct Carbon Capture from the Air: Technologies capture CO2 directly from the atmosphere, which is then stored or used for different applications.

     

    Looking ahead: The risks & benefits of carbon capture technology

    Additionally, it’s important to remember carbon capture technology isn’t without risk and there is no perfect solution. As in any complex system, carbon marine capture technologies pose risks of disrupting ocean ecosystems. Currently, tests are currently underway, but the large-scale applications of these technologies lead room for unexpected ramifications once fully implemented. Further, many carbon capture methods require substantial energy and resources, raising sustainability concerns and technological limitations. 

    Impact of Science Illustration Visualizing Carbon Capture Potential: Adding Alkaline Rocks - Depositing minerals in seawater to react with CO2, forming carbonate minerals that remove CO2 from the ocean and aid in long-term carbon storage, illustrated by Sayo Studio.
    Adding Alkaline Rocks: Depositing minerals in seawater to react with CO2, forming carbonate minerals that remove CO2 from the ocean and aid in long-term carbon storage, illustrated by Sayo Studio.

    While ethical considerations regarding resource allocation and effectiveness also complicate their implementation, many scientists remain optimistic that carbon capture technology may be one part of the solution to mitigate climate change. The urgency of the climate crisis requires impactful science illustration and communication of advancing technologies. Science illustrations like this play a crucial role in the communication strategy for reaching a diverse audience on a worldwide issue. 

     

    Supporting climate action through impactful science illustration

    Ultimately, we loved supporting this feature on innovative solutions and climate advocacy toward a more sustainable future. Here at SayoStudio, we recognize the challenge of translating technical details into effective communication. Our start-to-finish communication process helps you find visual solutions that make an impact for specific projects and audiences. Feel free to contact us to discuss your design, illustration, or animation needs and explore the possibilities together.

     

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