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 >
What is ocean acidification?
Ocean acidification is the lowering of the ocean's pH levels. It is caused by carbon dioxide gas in the atmosphere dissolving into the ocean. The ocean is becoming acidic because of these lowering pH levels which are leading to the death of coral and other aquatic organisms. This is bad because it will not only affect the oceans, but animals on land will be affected too. A large majority of humans find their main source of protein from sea animals, and many humans will be malnourished without healthy fish and other sea food. We need to stop ignoring problems like ocean acidification just because it isn't affecting you, because it is probably affecting billions of others.