In addition to the famous impacts of atmospheric carbon on global warming, there is an equally worrisome effect of carbon dioxide on the oceans: ocean acidification (or OA for short). Here at I2SEA we have a series of resources about OA, including Our Acidifying Ocean, which is an introductory activity and virtual lab (note: now mobile compatible!).
A student suggested that we start a conversation topic about OA, and here it is! Have you heard about Ocean Acidification? If so, are you worried about it? How do you think we can best raise awareness about it among your fellow students and the general public? Have you seen particularly good links or films about OA that you would like to share? What are you doing to address the problem?
Ocean Acidification >
Ocean Acidification
Ocean acidification is the name for the ocean becoming increasingly acidic, due to the increase of carbon dioxide in the atmosphere. The main cause of this is the burning of fossil fuels. Acidification reduces the availability of carbonate ions in ocean water, which provide the building blocks marine organisms need to make their shells and skeletons, significantly reducing the chances for their offspring to survive. This affects humans because ocean acidification has the potential to impact many ocean-related benefits to society such as coastal protection, food, and income.