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 >
How Are We Affecting Our Oceans?
The carbon dioxide that we emit into the air cycles into our oceans and causes much more harm than we realize. Our oceans take in a million tons of carbon dioxide each hour and for the past twenty years, the acid levels have increased by approximately 30%. As the ocean's acid levels dangerously climb higher, marine life struggles to adapt to these changes. One major affect that acid in the sea has is the destruction of coral reefs. Coral reefs supply shelter for 25% of species living in the sea and is a very essential part of the ocean's ecosystems. A solution for this is using two tons of lime to get rid of a single ton of carbon dioxide, but it is unreasonable. Acid is evidently changing the species living the ocean, like jellyfish that are being weakened and look transparent and the toughest barnacles dissolving. Will there be better solutions for this worldwide problem?
Sources: http://ngm.nationalgeographic.com/print … lbert-text