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 >
what is ocean acidification?
ocean acidification is the change of the oceans chemistry. The ph of our oceans are rapidly decreasing due to the reaction between carbon dioxide and our sea water. The burning of fossil fuels is increasing the amount of CO2 in the atmosphere which is reacting with our oceans, making our oceans more acidic. This is dangerous because the acidity in the oceans are causing animals with carbonate shells like coral, oysters and muscles to weaken. It also makes it difficult to make new shells and destroys habitat for fish and other marine animals.
As you mentioned, ocean acidification is definitely a huge issue we are faced with at the moment. Since oceans are really important to our environment, we need to do our part to lower our CO2 emissions to save what's left of our oceans and its inhabitants. Overall, great points.