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 >
We Must Save Our Ocean
I have heard of Ocean Acidification or the rising levels of carbon Dioxide in our ocean and I am very concerned about its effects on our ocean. Ocean Acidification has many effects on our ocean's ecosystem but one in particular is the bleaching of coral. The rising CO2 levels in the ocean are beginning to bleach and kill the coral. The coral is a habitat and hideaway for many small animals, as the coral dies they loss their habitat and protection from predators. This process throws off the cycle of the ecosystem. We can help better raise awareness by putting up posters and making short films about the causes of the increasing levels of CO2 on our oceans. In these posters and films we can explain the direct effect on the animals and habitats. I'm disappointed with the lack of sufficient films on Ocean Acidification and sadly have no links to share! Let's work together to better raise awareness of this crisis effecting our oceans!
That is a great argument! I never realized how much coral protected fish and other creatures until you just now mentioned it. It is important to think about the plants just as it is important to think about the animals. I do agree that without plants the animals will suffer, therefore we need to do all that we can to stop ocean acidification.
I agree, Ocean Acidification is a huge problem. It affects not only coral reefs but also crustaceans and other invertebrates, and this problem cannot be ignored any longer. When people think about Global Warming they usually don't think about how it affects our oceans, and if we continue to ignore the problem it will become too late for the oceans and the millions of organisms that rely on them.
i agree, ocean acidification is a very big problem around the world right now. It is affecting all sorts of life in the sea, and is also affecting us. I think the idea of putting of posters and signs in large locations would be smart. It could help people become aware of the situation to help figure out these problems ad some them for good.
Lowering ocean acidification should be a high priority for our world, it’s almost a chain if the oceans begin to die out it will continue into our world.
I do believe that ocean acidification is a significant issue and that there should be much more accomplished to raise awareness of this crisis. Although there may be many various methods to educate the general public, I believe that not enough is actually being done to assist this very detrimental situation.
Natalei 14,
North Carolina