The Invisible Peril: Ocean Acidification

What if our oceans were turning into acid baths, threatening the very foundation of marine life? In this episode of "Talking Climate Change with Yash Negi," we explore the alarming phenomenon of ocean acidification, often referred to as the "other CO2 problem." You’ll learn how increased carbon dioxide emissions are fundamentally altering the chemistry of our oceans, leading to a 30% rise in acidity since the industrial revolution. We break down the science of how CO2 dissolves in seawater, forming carbonic acid and triggering a cascade of chemical reactions that decrease the availability of essential carbonate ions. This shift, though seemingly minor on the pH scale, has set the stage for a crisis not seen in at least 300 million years. 

Join us as we delve into the far-reaching implications of this acidification on marine ecosystems. From the microscopic phytoplankton that produce half of the world's oxygen to the economically vital shellfish industry, we unravel how this chemical shift is disrupting marine life. Discover the cascading effects from the foundational zooplankton to the majestic coral reefs, often termed the "rainforests of the sea." Hear about real-world impacts, such as the 70-80% decline in oyster larvae production reported by hatcheries in Oregon. This episode underscores the urgency of tackling ocean acidification, highlighting not just the ecological consequences but also the significant economic ramifications.

Transcript

Yash: 3:39

we are slowly turning our oceans into a weak acid bath, but its impact are limited to just shell building creatures.

Yash: 6:42

But perhaps no marine ecosystem is more threatened by ocean acidification than coral reefs. Often called the rainforests of the sea, coral reefs support an estimated 25% of all marine species. They are also vital for coastal protection, tourism and fisheries, providing food and livelihoods for hundreds of millions of people worldwide. Corals build their skeletons from calcium carbonate, and ocean acidification is making this process even more difficult. So, according to some studies, it has shown that more acidic conditions can reduce coral growth rates by as much as 40%. This doesn't just mean slower growing reefs. It means that reefs that are more vulnerable to other stresses, like rising temperatures and storm damage, to other stresses like rising temperatures and storm damage. On the other hand, the Great Barrier Reef, the world's largest coral reef system, is already showing signs of stress. While much of the recent damage has been attributed to coral breaching caused by rising temperatures, ocean acidification is compounding the problem, making it even harder for corals to recover from these events.

Yash: 8:07

It is not just calcifying organisms that are affected by ocean acidification Fish, too, are showing signs of stress. In more acidic waters, some species lose their ability to detect predators, while others show changes in behavior or reduce reproductive success. Clownfish, for instance, have been shown to have trouble identifying suitable habitats in more acidic conditions. Even sharks, which have survived multiple mass extinctions over millions of years, may not be immune to the effects of ocean acidification, according to recent studies that have suggested that shark scales, which are made of similar material to teeth, may become softer in more acidic waters, potentially affecting their swimming efficiency. The consequences of these changes ripple far beyond the water.

Yash: 9:12

Let's consider some of the human impacts of ocean acidification. Fisheries and aquaculture, which provide livelihoods for millions and food for billions, are at risk. The Food and Agriculture Organization of the United Nations estimates that fish provide about 3.2 billion people with almost 20% of their average per capita intake of animal protein. If fish populations decline due to disruptions in the food web caused by ocean acidification, it could have serious implications for global food security. Coastal communities that depend on fishing and aquaculture are particularly vulnerable. In Alaska, for example, fisheries account for nearly 60% of the US commercial fish catch and support over 100,000 jobs. The potential economic impacts of ocean acidification on these communities could be severe. Tourism is another sector that could be heavily impacted, so coral reef tourism alone generates billions in revenue annually. The degradation of these ecosystems could have severe economic consequences, like for coastal communities that depend on reef-related tourism.

Yash: 10:42

There is, you know, also a growing concern about the potential for ocean acidification to impact global climate regulation. The ocean has been our ally in the fight against climate change, absorbing about a quarter of the CO2 we emit each year. But as the ocean becomes more acidic, its ability to absorb CO2 may be compromised. This could create a feedback loop where less CO2 is removed from the atmosphere, potentially accelerating global warming. So now the question is what can be done about ocean acidification? Question is what can be done about ocean acidification? The primary solution is clear. Let me tell you this we need to reduce carbon dioxide emission. You all know this. This will require a global effort to transition away from fossil fuel and towards renewable energy sources. Every ton of CO2 we keep out of the atmosphere is the ton that won't end up acidifying our ocean. But given the CO2 already in the atmosphere and the time lag in ocean processes, we also need to focus on adaptation and mitigation strategies, like investing in research. We need to better understand the impacts of acidification on different species and ecosystems, as well as their potential for adaptation.

Yash: 12:55

Let's move to the third point, which is like reducing other stress on marine ecosystems. Like by addressing issues like overfishing, pollution and habitat destruction, we can help increase the resilience of marine ecosystems to acidification. Fourth, as I like to talk about this topic a lot like exploring technological solution. So there are some researchers that are investigating the potential of adding alkaline materials to the ocean to counteract acidification. While these approaches are still in the early stages and carry their own risk, they represent the kind of innovative thinking we will need to address this challenge. Fifth, supporting sustainable aquaculture. As wild fish stocks come under pressure, sustainable aquaculture could help meet global food demand while reducing pressure on marine ecosystem. The sixth point, in which I will make, I guess, the next episode, which is, like improving water quality, reducing nutrient pollution from sources like agriculture and runoff can help mitigate local acidification in coastal areas.

Yash: 14:16

7. Establishing marine protected areas, so these can provide refugees for marine life and serve as nurseries to replenish surrounding areas. Last but not the least, is education and awareness. These are also very crucial right. So the more people understand about ocean acidification, the more likely they are to support policies and make personal choices that can help address this main issue. This includes not just reducing our carbon footprints, but also making sustainable seafood choices and supporting conservation efforts.

Yash: 15:01

It is important to note that, while the challenge of ocean acidification is significant, there are reasons for hope when we are seeing increasing recognition of the problem at both national and international level. The United Nations Sustainable Development Goal SDG, for instance, include a specific target to minimize and address the impacts of ocean acidification. Moreover, some marine organisms are showing the signs of resilience. Certain species of coral, for instance, seem to be more resistant to acidification than others. Seems to be more resistant to acidification than others. By identifying and protecting these resilient species and populations, we may be able to preserve biodiversity and ecosystem function even as conditions change.

Yash: 16:01

In conclusion, ocean acidification is a complex problem with far-reaching consequences. It threatens marine ecosystems, food security and economies worldwide. However, it is an insurmountable challenge. By reducing CO2 emissions, supporting research, protecting marine ecosystems and raising awareness, we can work towards mitigating its impact. Remember, the health of our oceans is intrinsically linked to our own well-being. The ocean provides us with food, regulates our climate, produces half of the world's oxygen and supports economies and livelihoods around the globe. By taking action on ocean acidification, you and me are not just protecting marine life. We are safeguarding our own future. Thank you for listening to this episode on ocean acidification. I hope you have gained a deeper understanding of this critical issue and feel inspired to take action. Whether it is reducing your carbon footprint, making sustainable seafood choices or supporting ocean conservation efforts, every action counts Until next time. This is your host, yash Negi, signing off.