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
The best way to raise awareness to the public is to take action. If people see you working against ocean acidification, they are more likely to help out. If your friend asks you to volunteer with them to help the oceans, you’re probably going to say yes. Even if you don’t want to help, saying no would make you seem like you didn’t care about the environment. Ocean acidification is happening because the ocean is absorbing about half of the co2 produced by humans, and is struggling to adjust. The best way to stop this is to try to limit the amount of co2 you contribute. You can do this by limiting your carbon emissions or offsetting your carbon footprint. Offsetting your carbon footprint can be done by supporting organizations that fight global warming.