How do carbon emissions affect the ocean?
Article Source The Impact of Carbon Emissions on Oceans
Why you should care
Carbon emissions are not just an air pollution problem; they also profoundly impact our oceans. As carbon dioxide (CO₂) levels increase, oceans absorb more of it, which leads to dangerous changes in ocean chemistry. This affects marine life, from coral reefs to fish, and ultimately impacts the food chain, biodiversity, and coastal economies.
Answering the question… How do carbon emissions affect the ocean?
The ocean absorbs roughly 30% of human-generated CO₂ emissions, leading to increased acidity. Since 1750, ocean surface acidity has risen by about 26%, weakening coral reefs, which are critical to marine ecosystems. Acidification also threatens shellfish populations by hindering shell formation. If current rates continue, acidity levels could increase by up to 150% by 2100, making survival difficult for many marine organisms.
How was the study done?
Scientists collected and analyzed ocean water samples across multiple regions to measure pH levels and CO₂ absorption rates. They then used these findings to model how continued emissions could further acidify oceans and impact marine life over time.
What was discovered?
- Increased Acidity: Since pre-industrial times, ocean surface acidity has increased by around 26%.
- Coral Reef Damage: Acidification hinders coral growth, endangering up to 25% of marine species that depend on reefs.
- Shellfish Struggle: Many shellfish cannot form strong shells in acidic waters, which could reduce populations by 40-50%.
- Food Chain Impact: Acidification affects smaller organisms at the base of the food chain, potentially reducing fish populations by up to 30%.
- Temperature Link: Higher CO₂ levels raise ocean temperatures, which can bleach coral reefs and disrupt marine habitats.
Why does it matter?
These findings emphasize the urgent need to reduce carbon emissions to protect ocean health. Coral reefs, which support a quarter of marine life, face significant threats from acidification, as do fish populations critical to global food supplies. Understanding these effects can drive policies aimed at reducing emissions and preserving marine ecosystems essential for biodiversity and human survival.