Effect of Climate Change on Oceans Gaining Attention

Richard Feely of the US National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration has long reported on how carbon emissions increase acidity of the world’s oceans. In June, a panel of scientists confirmed his findings about the destruction of ocean habitat in a federal report. The report recommends more fieldwork about the effect of carbon dioxide in acidifying the ocean. The oceans have long absorbed carbon dioxide, but increasing emissions from human activities are straining that natural ability for absorption. The rise in acidity is causing rapid changes in ocean habitat, for example, hampering development of some plankton species at the base of the food chain and decreasing the lifespan of species at the higher levels such as Pacific salmon. Significant disruptions in the food chain will eventually pose problems for humans and other land species as well. – YaleGlobal