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 >
A potential solution?
One potential solution is to restore/protect sea grasses and other vegetation. While this might not work as well in areas like the deep sea, in more shallow coastal environments this could help a lot. During the day, the sea plants undergo photosynthesis, and part of that process involves removing CO2 from the water. The plants kind of act as a buffer for the organisms which need a higher pH. One bigger objection to this might be the cost, but if we don't do something soon, the cost will just get bigger and bigger, both economically and environmentally.
I like this solution, but confused on how it would work. Would you imagine that the sea grass would be planted in an estuary setting, or just on a beach?
Yes i do agree ,i also believe that wetlands are a better than planting trees due to the fact that once it collects co2 and stores it better giving it the title of a powerhouse when it comes to storage.The preservation of the ecosystem in the ocean and wetlands are incredibly important to the reduction of co2.