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 >
Combatting Ocean acidification
To halt ocean acidification, we must reduce carbon emissions, promote renewable energy sources, preserve coastal ecosystems, and invest in research. Collective efforts are essential to safeguard the ocean's delicate balance and the biodiversity it sustains.
Yes, I agree that we must reduce carbon emissions to halt ocean acidification (as well as the other solutions you proposed). The ocean absorbs 30% of the carbon dioxide released in the atmosphere, and this CO2 causes the ocean's pH to drop. A lower pH means that the ocean becomes more acidic. This is a huge problem. As many of the ocean's fish depend on specific pH levels to detect predators, a more acidic ocean puts these organisms at risk--and perhaps the entire food web. This butterfly effect puts people at danger as well, especially coastal communities who depend on food from the ocean.
See this article for more: https://oceanservice.noaa.gov/facts/aci … atmosphere.