Ocean acidification

Ocean acidification is a serious environmental issue resulting from the increased concentration of carbon dioxide (CO2) in the atmosphere, much of which is absorbed by the oceans. When CO2 dissolves in seawater, it forms carbonic acid, which lowers the ocean's pH and increases its acidity. Over the past century, ocean acidity has risen by around 30%, with the rate of change accelerating. This change in seawater chemistry greatly affects marine life, particularly organisms that depend on calcium carbonate to form their shells and skeletons, such as corals, oysters, and certain plankton species. These species are crucial to the functioning of marine ecosystems, and their decline could disrupt food webs and result in a significant loss of biodiversity in the oceans.

The effects of ocean acidification extend beyond the natural world and into human economies. Fisheries and industries that rely on marine organisms for food and commerce could face significant challenges, as acidification weakens the shells of shellfish and hinders coral reef growth. Coral reefs, which act as vital coastal barriers, could erode, leaving coastlines more vulnerable to storms and rising sea levels. Moreover, the oceans play a crucial role in regulating global climate by absorbing CO2, but as acidification progresses, the ocean’s ability to act as a carbon sink may diminish. Addressing ocean acidification requires reducing CO2 emissions and implementing conservation efforts to protect marine ecosystems.