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
Ever since we began burning fossil fuels for energy, 30% of the carbon dioxide has been absorbed by our oceans. When our seawater absorbs the carbon dioxide it increases the acidity of the ocean. This is very harmful to the sea life, as many fish and marine mammals are very sensitive to changes in pH. Among these are our coral reefs, which already struggle from bleaching caused by temperature change. Because of the dependence of coastal communities on the ocean, if our sea life dies off or becomes endangered, many economies will be at risk. https://oceanservice.noaa.gov/facts/aci … o%20a,CO2)