ocean acidification It is an environmental problem that often goes unnoticed. climate changeBut its effects are just as worrying. This phenomenon is a result of the absorption of carbon dioxide (CO2) by the oceans, which causes an increase in the acidity of the water and devastating consequences for marine life and ocean ecosystems.
Ocean acidification: causes and consequences
The main cause of ocean acidification Increase in CO2 emissions to the atmosphere due to human activitiesSuch as the burning of fossil fuels, deforestation and industrial production. Approximately 30% of the CO2 emitted from these activities is absorbed by the oceans, causing a range of climate changes. chemical reactions It increases the concentration of hydrogen ions in water and decreases the concentration of carbonate ions.
This change in ocean chemistry It has harmful effects on marine life, especially organisms with calcareous shells and skeletons, such as corals, plankton, molluscs and some crustaceans. Decrease in carbonate ions this makes the formation and maintenance of shells and skeletons difficultThis can lead to the dissolution of organisms and the destruction of coral reefs.
Coral reefs are important ecosystems for marine biodiversity and we provide habitats and refuges for a wide variety of species. In addition, coral reefs protect the coastline from erosion and contribute to the local economy through tourism and fishing. The disappearance of coral reefs will have devastating consequences for marine life and coastal ecosystems.
ocean acidification It also affects the marine food chainBecause many of the affected organisms are food sources for higher species. This could have cascading effects on fisheries and food security worldwide, as well as the biodiversity and productivity of ocean ecosystems.
Areas with the highest incidence
ocean acidification a global phenomenonhowever, its effect varies depending on the region and local conditions. polar regionsLike the Arctic and Antarctic, it is particularly sensitive to acidification, which allows greater CO2 uptake due to increased solubility of CO2 in cold waters and reduced sea ice cover.
Also, such as coastal areas and shallow water ecosystems mangroves and estuariesIt is also sensitive to ocean acidification. These ecosystems already face a number of environmental pressures, such as pollution, eutrophication and habitat loss, and acidification can worsen these problems.
Inside tropical regionsCoral reefs are particularly sensitive to acidification because they depend on the presence of carbonate ions to maintain their calcareous structure. The Great Barrier Reef in Australia, the Caribbean and the South Pacific are some of the areas most affected by this event.
Possible solutions
The most effective, long-term solution against ocean acidification, Reduce CO2 emissions globally. This includes adopting climate change mitigation policies such as the Paris Agreement and encouraging the transition to clean and renewable energy sources such as solar, wind and hydropower. It is also important to encourage Sustainable practices in agriculture, forestry and industry Reducing CO2 emissions and other greenhouse gases.
It is possible to implement measures at the local level. Protect and restore marine and coastal ecosystems This could help mitigate the effects of ocean acidification. These measures include establishing marine protected areas, restoring degraded habitats such as mangroves and seagrass meadows, and promoting sustainable fishing practices.
This is also important to promote scientific research To better understand the effects of ocean acidification on marine ecosystems and develop adaptation and mitigation strategies. For example, innovative approaches are being studied, such as adding alkaline materials such as limestone to affected areas to increase the concentration of carbonate ions and reduce water acidity.
just through collective action and international cooperation We will be able to confront the silent but devastating threat of ocean acidification.
Resources:
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Reports and publications of the United Nations Educational, Scientific and Cultural Organization (UNESCO), particularly the International Program on the State of the Ocean (IPSO) and the Intergovernmental Oceanographic Commission (IOC).
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Research and studies published in specialized scientific journals, e.g. Nature, ScienceAnd Marine Pollution Bulletin.
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Reports and resources Intergovernmental Panel on Climate Change (IPCC).
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Websites of governmental and non-governmental organizations dedicated to the preservation and protection of the oceans, e.g. United States National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration (NOAA) and World Wildlife Fund (WWF).
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