Science Weekly
Is the ocean becoming too acidic to sustain life?
Sep 26, 2024
Prof. Helen Findlay, a biological oceanographer at the Plymouth Marine Laboratory, dives into the alarming state of our oceans. She explains how rising carbon dioxide levels are pushing ocean acidity towards critical thresholds, threatening marine ecosystems. The discussion touches on the struggles faced by calcifying organisms like corals and shellfish. Innovative solutions, such as enhancing natural carbon sinks like seagrasses and exploring new technologies, offer hope as they tackle the urgent challenges posed by climate change.
14:40
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Quick takeaways
- Ocean acidification threatens marine life and ecosystems as increased CO2 levels disrupt the stability of organisms with calcium carbonate shells.
- Strategies like promoting natural carbon sinks and developing technological solutions are crucial in mitigating ocean acidification and restoring balance.
Deep dives
Oceans as Carbon Sinks
The oceans play a crucial role in mitigating climate change by absorbing a significant portion of carbon dioxide emissions. Approximately 25 to 30% of the CO2 released from human activities is taken up by the oceans, helping to prevent global temperatures from rising drastically. Without this natural process, global warming could escalate by five to six degrees higher than current levels. However, this capacity for carbon absorption is not indefinite, as oceanic processes have limits, which could lead to diminished absorption rates in the future.
