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
Over 200 years the pH of the ocean has fallen by 0.1 which is a thirty percent decrease in pH. This is due to the increase in the concentration of carbon dioxide in the atmosphere when humans burn fossil fuels and deforest our planet. Estimates suggest that by the end of the century the pH level of the ocean's surface will be 150 percent more acidic than what it is now. This is an indication that we have to find a solution to this problem quickly or there could be very serious consequences.