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Recently, University of the Philippines scientists announced their discovery of significant amounts of gas hydrates in the Manila Trench, an elongated and narrow seabed groove situated in the Pacific Ocean west of Luzon and Mindoro that plunges to a depth of approximately 17,700 feet or 5,400 meters. The gas hydrates cover about 15,400 square kilometers, which is equivalent to the size of Palawan.
The detection of gas hydrates, which are possibly 200 to 500 meters beneath the seabed, was done through seismic reflections. This allows the investigation of subsurface structures without drilling. By examining current seismic data from the trench, the scientists managed to map bottom-simulating reflectors (BSRs), which helped identify the possible locations of gas hydrates in the area.
Gas hydrates explained
Similar to how carbonated drinks are basically water mixed with carbon dioxide, gas hydrates are ice incorporated with methane, a natural gas utilized for fuel. These ice-like formations typically occur only beneath the ocean floor, where high pressure and temperatures just below the water’s freezing point create the right conditions for their formation.
Natural gas like methane is a possible fossil fuel alternative. Fossil fuels are in danger of depletion and may become too costly to extract in the long run.
While gas hydrate extraction is still in the experimental and early development stages, it offers these potential benefits:
- Energy security
Gas hydrates are abundant under the sea floor and in permafrost regions, such as Siberia, Northern Canada, and Alaska. According to a U.S. Geological Survey, methane hydrates may hold about twice the amount of carbon found in all global reserves of oil, conventional natural gas, and coal combined. Countries with gas hydrate deposits can boost their energy security and reduce dependence on energy imports.
- Environmental care
The International Energy Agency states that natural gas generates less carbon compared to most other fossil fuels. Natural gas from hydrates can also serve as a transitional energy source while renewable energy technologies continue to evolve. Additionally, extracted natural gas can be reformed into hydrogen, which is a key element of future clean energy systems.
- Boosted economy
The development of hydrate extraction technology and infrastructure can create jobs in engineering, construction, and other processes. It can also provide additional income for countries and companies involved in its production and sale.
Downsides of gas hydrates
Though gas hydrates are a promising alternative energy source, the UP scientists are quick to warn that these pose risks. Such hydrates are generally unstable, breaking down and melting when their environment changes, typically during earthquakes. Moreover, the Manila Trench is geologically active, causing frequent earthquakes in Western Luzon. Once the gas hydrates melt, it could disturb the seafloor, possibly leading to tsunamis and underwater landslides.
Improper extraction could also cause methane to be released into the atmosphere. Methane is a potent greenhouse gas, significantly more effective in trapping atmospheric heat than carbon dioxide, contributing to global warming and climate change.