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 and its effect on Coral Species
Ocean acidification is the process in which carbon dioxide is absorbed into ocean water. CO2 decreases the pH levels of the water, meaning it makes the ocean more acidic than basic. An effect of ocean acidification is a reduced carbonate ion concentration and calcium carbonate minerals. According to the PMEL Carbon Program, those calcium carbonate minerals are essential for building the shells and skeletons of many organisms. One of the organisms harmed are corals. Research shows that if ocean acidification continues, coral reefs would be less likely to recover from disruptions in their environment. Coral reef biologists also declare that, at the end of this century, coral reefs will deteriorate faster than they can be restored. If ocean acidification furthers, the water will become deprived of calcium carbonate minerals and will make it more difficult for new coral reefs to form.
I agree with you the primary cause of ocean acidification is increases in atmospheric Co2. The average Co2 level is 408 ppm which is way more than before industrial times.
I agree with you I think the high levels of Co2 being absorbed is a big problem. I think we need to figure out a solution fast because this will be disastrous.
Ocean acidification also affects many other animals. Calcifiers, which you can identify by their shells, are greatly affected. When the ocean is too acidic they develop slowly and can not completely develop their shells. This can lead to effects on the whole food chain.
Ocean Acidification is serious problem; here are some ways to reduce our carbon footprint in order to slow/ stop the process:
- we can reduce our carbon footprint by using less energy at home (setting timers, turning lights, not running excess water, etc.)
- we can buy less things (become less materialistic, OR buy things that last for long periods of time)
- we can buy things that are disposable/recyclable and will not pollute the enviroment
- calculate and try to reduce our carbon footprints