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 >
Effects of Ocean Acidification
Ocean Acidification is happening when the CO2 that we release into the atmosphere enters our oceans and produces carbonic acid. Carbonic acid can have massive effects on our oceans and all the organisms living in it. It can cause coral bleaching and death. Many organisms use these corals for shelter and could affect entire food webs and ecosystems, which in the long term, can affect us as well. Over 50% of the coral that existed in our oceans have been lost in 30 years. Corals are a very important part of our ecosystems, and they are being wiped out at a very fast rate. Our world is slowly coming to an end, and something needs to be done about this.