Acidification of Oceans Happening More Quickly than previously thought
According to an article on smh.com.au, a group of scientists is meeting in Canberra this week to review research about the acidification of the world’s oceans.
According to the article, the research shows that
acidification was now taking place over decades, rather than centuries as originally predicted
Acidification of the oceans is not caused by global warming, but is caused by the same thing – the buildup of CO2 in our atmosphere. By allowing CO2 emissions to continue, we are hitting the oceans with a double whammy – global warming causing the temperatures to rise, killing marine creatures (like coral) that are sensitive to heat, as well as acidification that itself kills marine organisms.
The oceans are integral to life on this planet. An extraordinarily high portion of our Oxygen comes from the oceans, and the oceans are a source for many of the foodchains important for humanity. The oceans also have an incredible effect on weather patterns.
We need to:
- reduce carbon emissions into the atmosphere
- clean up the oceans
- protect the balance of life in this extraordinary ecosystem
Go to The Big Switch to find out how you can reduce emissions. And go to Project AWARE and find out how you can get involved in cleanups and other activities to do your part to protect the oceans.
Every individual can make a difference.
Scientists tackle acid buildup in oceans - Breaking News - National - Breaking News.