Geography 2050 (2020) The 10 Greatest Challenges Facing the World Ocean: Ocean Acidification

Summary

Dr. Chris Verlinden discusses ocean acidification, one of the top 10 challenges facing the world ocean, its causes, effects, and implications for marine life and ecosystems.

Highlights

🌊 Ocean acidification is a significant challenge caused by increased carbon dioxide levels in the atmosphere.

🚗 Combustion engines and industrial activities release carbon dioxide, which reacts with seawater, lowering its pH and making it more acidic.

📉 From 1960 to 2010, atmospheric CO2 concentrations rose from 300 to nearly 400 parts per million, while ocean pH dropped from 8.1 to 8.05.

🌍 By 2100, without significant CO2 emission reductions, ocean pH could decrease to 7.8, threatening marine ecosystems.

🐟 Ocean acidification affects marine organisms like pteropods, impacting entire food chains, including salmon and humans.

🔬 Supporting scientific research and advocating for policies to reduce CO2 emissions are crucial actions individuals can take.

🌱 Addressing ocean acidification requires global cooperation and sustainable practices to mitigate its harmful effects.