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
Ocean acidification is a huge problem although many may not know of this issue. Ocean acidification is when Carbon dioxide diffuses into our ocean. The cause to the amount of CO2 released into the ocean is the burnings of fossil fuels as well as the methane gas that is released into the air because of cows. when water (H2o) and carbon dioxide (co2) mix they combine to form carbonic acid. Carbonic acid breaks down coral reefs and Shells which is a home to many ocean animals.
I think that ocean acidification is a huge problem today because this phenomenon has many consequences : it impact the grow of corals and plankton wich are the base of our marine biodiversity, moreover, it also impact the grow of fish which is a big issue when we know that a lot of countries are feed by these fishs. We have to change that, the environnent is in danger.
The ocean acidification is a topical issue. For my island home, it represents a huge problem because we live close to ocean , apart from being an international honeymoon destination, my tiny island is also home to thousands types of fish. Coral reefs are some of our richest and most complex eco systems on the planet and its actually threatened by climate change, overfishing, careless actions and pollution.