The Daily How Changing Ocean Temperatures Could Upend Life on Earth
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May 7, 2024 
David Gelles and Raymond Zhong, both reporters for The New York Times focusing on climate issues, dive deep into the alarming rise in ocean temperatures and its dire implications. They discuss how man-made global warming is accelerating marine crises, particularly affecting coral reefs and biodiversity. The potential disruption of the Atlantic Meridional Overturning Circulation could usher in catastrophic climate changes, including severe cooling in Europe. Their compelling insights highlight the urgent need for climate action to prevent further ecological collapse.
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Unexplained Ocean Warming
- Ocean temperatures are rising at an alarming rate, exceeding predictions.
- Scientists are puzzled by a sudden jump in sea surface temperatures starting in March 2023.
Unintended Consequences of Cleaner Shipping
- Reduced sulfur dioxide emissions from ships have unintentionally increased ocean warming.
- Less sulfur dioxide means less sunlight is reflected back into space, leading to more heat absorption by the oceans.
Coral Bleaching Crisis
- Warming oceans are causing widespread coral bleaching, threatening marine ecosystems.
- Coral reefs are vital to the food chain, and their decline will have cascading effects on marine life.