The Ocean and Climate Change

Unveiled Term “Ocean Acidification”

The ocean is our life source which covers over 70% of the planet. It supports humanity’s sustenance and that of every other organism on earth. The ocean produces at least 50% of the planet’s oxygen, it is home to most of earth’s biodiversity.

However, human activities are hurting the ocean, and the term “ocean acidification” is unveiled to the public. The release of carbon dioxide by humans not only causes climate change but also has a great change in the chemistry of the ocean, enhancing its acidity. What’s worse, the land-based sources of pollution will also have a harmful influence on the coastal water, causing localized acidification.

Harm of Ocean Acidification

Ocean and coastal acidification can harm plants and animals. Impacts to sensitive species will likely have a ripple effect on all kinds of life in the ocean. The acidification may cause the reduction of the populations of small animals like clams and oysters, as a result, the larger animals could run short of food. Any increase or decrease in the abundance of a species can have a ripple effect on other species.

Coral reefs host an abundant and diverse array of marine life, and they build their hard stony skeletons out of calcium carbonate. Corals may not form calcium carbonate under increased acidity, and under severe acidity the coral’s skeleton can dissolve. Thus, the effect of increased ocean acidity on one type of organism can have serious consequences for an entire ecosystem.

Take Steps to Support the Ocean

Simple choices and small behavior changes can have a great impact on the ocean. Anything that reduces energy consumption or increases energy efficiency is the right move because such actions ultimately help to reduce carbon emissions and pollution.

There are some tips about what you can do to reduce your contribution to acidification:

• Look for the ENERGY STAR certification label on energy-efficient products.
• Take advantage of no-to-low cost energy-saving: turning off lights when space is unoccupied, unplugging electronics when not in use.
• think green before you shop: consider a product’s durability, sustainability, and ease of recycling when making a purchase.
• Continue to use greener transportation: biking, walking, carpooling, and public transportation can significantly reduce greenhouse gas emissions.
• Use water efficiently at home at a no-to-low cost: use low-flow faucets, shower heads, repair leaking faucets, toilets, and pumps, etc.
• Share your knowledge! Tell others in your home, school, workplace, and community how they can reduce greenhouse gas emissions and take other climate protection steps.
• Choose phosphate-free detergents, soaps, and household cleaners.

It is a small step towards a bigger world. Move forwards to protect it!