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 has become a major issue and has begun to put our planet in grave peril. When the ocean's carbonate content decreases, this occurs. Seawater's primary building block is carbonate. Ocean acidification makes it considerably harder for marine animals to produce their shells and skeletons, such as coral and some plankton, and preexisting shells may also start to erode. Carbon dioxide concentrations in the atmosphere have grown, which has led to ocean acidification. Ocean acidification has begun to have an impact on our marine food webs and has grown to be a significant problem for coral reefs. This has an impact on coral reefs because it decreases the pace at which they produce calcium carbonate, which in turn slows the development of coral skeletons. The coral reef is extremely beneficial to our world since it safeguards coasts from storms and erosion, provides employment for local residents, and gives recreational opportunities.
I personally agree with your statement. The people don't know how damaging the carbon dioxide can be and how much damage it can bring to flora and fauna of the ocean. We need to take action if we want to save the marine life.