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, caused by rising CO2 levels, endangers marine life and ecosystems. It harms coral reefs, shellfish, and biodiversity, disrupting fisheries and tourism. This issue also impacts climate change, as less CO2 can be absorbed by the ocean. Solutions include reducing CO2 emissions, creating marine protected areas, and raising public awareness about the problem. Addressing ocean acidification is crucial for protecting our oceans and the diverse ecosystems they sustain.
I agree with you rising CO2 levels cause ocean acidification. When there is too much carbon dioxide in the atmosphere, some of it will be taken in by the ocean. This is a problem because the rise of CO2 is lowering the pH level in the ocean. Animals like oysters, scallops, and shellfish need shells to survive in the ocean but cannot form them because ocean acidification breaks down their shells.
I agree that ocean acidification is caused by CO2 because in the past during the great dying. Tons of CO2 we put out in our atmosphere the ocean took in some of the CO2 and this caused the ocean to become very acidic. Just like in the past we are getting more CO2 in our atmosphere. Our ocean is also becoming more acidic, if it’s anything like the past then most likely the ocean is becoming more acidic because of all of the CO2 in the atmosphere. The ocean becoming more and more acidic is very crucial because the acidity in the ocean can break down shellfish and crustations shells, taking away their protection. Eventually the ocean can become so acidic that it won’t be habitable.