Ocean acidification

Definition

Ocean acidification is the process by which the ocean becomes more acidic due to increased levels of carbon dioxide (CO2) in the atmosphere, resulting from human activities such as burning fossil fuels. This change in ocean chemistry poses significant threats to marine ecosystems, particularly to organisms that rely on calcium carbonate for their shells and skeletons, linking it to broader issues of climate change and environmental governance.

5 Must Know Facts For Your Next Test

1. Ocean acidification is estimated to increase by 0.3 to 0.4 units of pH by the end of the century if CO2 emissions continue at current rates.
2. The increased acidity makes it harder for marine organisms like corals, mollusks, and some plankton to form their shells and skeletons, leading to potential declines in these populations.
3. Coral reefs, which support about 25% of all marine species, are particularly vulnerable to ocean acidification, threatening the biodiversity and productivity of these ecosystems.
4. Ocean acidification can disrupt marine food webs, impacting species that rely on calcifying organisms for food, such as certain fish and seabirds.
5. International cooperation is vital for addressing ocean acidification as it is a global issue that requires shared research efforts and policy responses among countries.

Review Questions

• How does ocean acidification relate to the overall health of marine ecosystems?
  • Ocean acidification impacts marine ecosystems by altering the chemistry of seawater, making it more difficult for organisms that rely on calcium carbonate to thrive. This includes corals, mollusks, and some plankton species that are foundational to marine food webs. The decline in these species can lead to reduced biodiversity and destabilized ecosystems, highlighting the interconnectedness of ocean health and broader environmental issues.
• What role do international agreements play in addressing the challenges posed by ocean acidification?
  • International agreements are crucial for tackling ocean acidification as they facilitate collaborative efforts among nations to reduce CO2 emissions and protect marine environments. Initiatives such as the Paris Agreement encourage countries to commit to emission reduction targets that can help mitigate ocean acidification. By fostering scientific research and sharing best practices globally, these agreements also aim to build resilience within marine ecosystems against ongoing changes.
• Evaluate the implications of ocean acidification for future global environmental governance strategies.
  • The implications of ocean acidification for global environmental governance strategies include the need for integrated approaches that address both climate change mitigation and marine conservation. As ocean acidification affects biodiversity and ecosystem services critical for human well-being, strategies must incorporate adaptive management practices that consider ecological resilience. Furthermore, fostering collaboration among scientists, policymakers, and stakeholders worldwide will be essential for developing effective policies that address this multifaceted challenge in a holistic manner.

Related terms

carbon dioxide: A colorless gas produced by burning carbon and organic compounds, as well as during respiration, which is a primary greenhouse gas contributing to climate change.

calcium carbonate: A chemical compound found in rocks and shells of marine organisms, essential for the growth of corals and shellfish, which can be negatively impacted by ocean acidification.

marine biodiversity: The variety of life forms found in ocean ecosystems, which can be affected by changes in water chemistry due to ocean acidification, impacting food webs and ecosystem services.