Ocean Acidification: The Silent Crisis

Ocean acidification is often called climate change's 'evil twin,' and for good reason. As we pump more carbon dioxide into the atmosphere, about 30% of it is absorbed by our oceans. When CO2 dissolves in seawater, it triggers a chemical reaction that increases acidity, lowering the ocean's pH level.

Since the beginning of the industrial revolution, the ocean's surface pH has dropped from 8.2 to 8.1. This 0.1 change represents a 30% increase in acidity. While this might seem small, even minor pH changes can have dramatic effects on marine life, particularly organisms that build shells or skeletons from calcium carbonate.

Coral reefs, often called the rainforests of the sea, are particularly vulnerable. These complex ecosystems provide habitat for about 25% of all marine species, despite covering less than 1% of the ocean floor. As oceans become more acidic, corals struggle to build their calcium carbonate structures, leading to slower growth and weaker skeletons.

Shellfish like oysters, clams, and sea urchins also face serious challenges. More acidic water makes it difficult for them to form shells, and existing shells may even begin to dissolve. This threatens not only these species but entire food webs that depend on them.

The impacts extend beyond individual species to entire marine ecosystems and the human communities that rely on them. Fisheries, tourism, and coastal protection are all at risk as ocean acidification disrupts marine life.

Scientists project that if carbon emissions continue at current rates, ocean acidity could increase by 150% by 2100. The last time our oceans experienced this level of acidification was 65 million years ago, during a mass extinction event.

The good news is that by reducing carbon emissions, we can slow and eventually halt ocean acidification. Renewable energy, sustainable transportation, and improved energy efficiency

all help reduce the CO2 entering our atmosphere and eventually our oceans.

Individual actions matter too. By reducing your carbon footprint, supporting sustainable seafood, and raising awareness about ocean acidification, you can help protect our blue planet for future generations.