Spanish scientists propose refilling Aral Sea with carbon credits to prevent 605 million tons of CO2 emissions

A study published in Science by Spanish researchers reveals that the dried bed of the Aral Sea has released 748 million tons of CO2 since 1960, equivalent to the combined annual emissions of Spain, France, and Belgium. The scientists estimate another 605 million tons could still be emitted and propose using carbon credits worth between 3.1 billion and 15.8 billion euros to fund lake restoration. The team collected soil samples during a 2022 expedition to measure carbon loss over time. They found that revegetation projects in the area capture very little CO2 and that the only effective solution is to reflood the lake. Restoring about 50% of the 1960 surface area would cost roughly 8.5 billion euros and generate 323 million tons of CO2-equivalent in tradable credits, according to the study.