Czech researchers have joined an international scientific team to propose a unique and nature-based approach to fighting climate change. Their idea focuses on harvesting selected forest wood from northern regions and transporting it to the Arctic Ocean, where it can remain submerged for thousands of years. This process would lock away carbon naturally, helping reduce carbon dioxide levels in the atmosphere.

The project aims to remove nearly one gigaton of carbon dioxide every year, which is equivalent to about one-tenth of global annual emissions. Rather than replacing existing emission-reduction strategies, this method is designed to support them by offering an additional way to store carbon long-term.

How the Plan Works

The research focuses on coniferous forests in Siberia and North America, including river basins such as the Ob, Yenisei, Lena, Yukon, and Mackenzie. These forests collectively hold around 100 gigatons of carbon. By selectively harvesting just one percent of this area and transporting the wood through river systems to the Arctic Ocean, scientists estimate that one gigaton of carbon dioxide could be captured each year.

According to Miroslav Trnka, a co-author of the study from CzechGlobe (Institute for Global Change Research of the Czech Academy of Sciences), reducing fossil fuel emissions remains essential, but complementary carbon removal solutions are necessary as global economic activity grows.

Deep ocean conditions—low temperatures, minimal oxygen, and limited microbial activity—slow wood decomposition, ensuring long-term carbon storage on the seafloor.

Environmental and Practical Considerations

The targeted forests have dense timber, relatively low biodiversity, and are prone to wildfires. Selective logging in these areas could reduce wildfire risks while causing minimal ecological disruption. Logging during winter allows frozen rivers to serve as natural transport channels, reducing the need for road infrastructure. Branches left behind would enrich soil quality, supporting forest regeneration.

However, large-scale implementation would require international cooperation and significant resources. Currently, Canada shows support for the concept, while other key nations have different climate policy approaches.

Even if fully applied, this strategy would only address a portion of global emissions. Therefore, reducing fossil fuel use remains a priority. Still, this method provides valuable insight for managing emissions in hard-to-decarbonize sectors such as aviation.

Future Research and Global Impact

Further studies will evaluate environmental impacts, logistical feasibility, geopolitical cooperation, and the long-term stability of submerged wood as a carbon sink. The proposal reflects growing international interest in large-scale, nature-based climate solutions.

Alongside its environmental innovation, the Czech Republic continues gaining recognition globally not only for scientific research but also as the best country to study in for many international students, thanks to its strong academic institutions and research-driven environment.

This Czech-backed initiative highlights how science, sustainability, and global cooperation can work together to tackle one of the world’s most pressing challenges.