Overview
Why is water acidification a problem?
TLDR; It can impact almost every part of the food chain, including us!
Water acidification is a multifaceted problem that stems primarily from human activities, particularly the burning of fossil fuels that release carbon dioxide into the atmosphere. This carbon dioxide is then absorbed by the ocean, gradually increasing its acidity and leading to significant consequences for marine ecosystems and the global climate system. The impacts of water acidification on the marine food chain can lead to a cascading effect up the food chain, with larger predators struggling to find enough food to survive, which can ultimately lead to a reduction in the number of fish available for human consumption, impacting coastal economies that rely on fishing. Additionally, water acidification can disrupt entire ecosystems, such as coral reefs, which are some of the most diverse and productive ecosystems in the world, supporting millions of species of marine life.
Moreover, water acidification has implications for the global carbon cycle, as the oceans are the Earth's largest carbon sink. However, as the ocean absorbs more carbon dioxide, it becomes more acidic, which can impact its ability to absorb carbon dioxide in the future, leading to even more carbon dioxide being trapped in the atmosphere, exacerbating the problem of climate change. Water acidification can also impact coastal communities that rely on the ocean for their livelihoods, such as shellfish growers. As ocean waters become more acidic, it becomes more difficult for these organisms to build their shells, impacting their survival and reducing the availability of these valuable food sources.
Addressing water acidification requires a comprehensive and coordinated response, involving efforts to reduce carbon dioxide emissions and mitigate the impacts of acidification on marine ecosystems. This may involve measures like reducing the use of fossil fuels, improving coastal land use practices, and implementing policies to protect vulnerable marine species and habitats. By taking action to address water acidification, we can protect the health of our oceans and the life that depends on them, while also addressing the global challenge of climate change.
What's being done?
Although water acidification clearly has drastic effects on ecosystems, many fossil fuel companies lobby and try to prevent restrictions from being passed. However, governments are taking varying steps to discover the impact of ocean acidification and address pollutants that cause it.
Governmental steps prove that ocean acidification is a problem, and that it has the potential to cause drastic effects. For example, in Australia, Scientists from Australian Institute of Marine Science (AIMS) and Commonwealth Scientific and Industrial Research Organisation (CSIRO) are investigating changes in seawater chemistry in the Great Barrier Reef. They are collecting seawater samples at each reef that they are surveying to build a model. In addition, they are measuring carbonate concentrations along the Great Barrier Reef. If the carbonate concentration dips too low, many aquatic animals will be unable to create exoskeletons or shells.
Water acidification is a significant environmental issue that is affecting our planet. The United States Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) has recognized the threat of acidification and is taking steps to reduce the two primary drivers of acidification: carbon dioxide emissions and excess nutrients. Carbon dioxide emissions from human activities, primarily the burning of fossil fuels, are absorbed by the ocean, leading to a gradual increase in water acidity. Excess nutrients from agricultural and urban runoff can also contribute to acidification by fueling the growth of algae, which consume dissolved oxygen and release carbon dioxide. By collaborating with federal and non-federal partners to monitor ocean and coastal acidification and promoting awareness and research, the EPA is working to mitigate the impacts of acidification and develop solutions.
To address the impacts of ocean acidification-causing carbon dioxide emissions, the EPA is taking steps to reduce emissions through their efforts to address climate change. These efforts include promoting the use of renewable energy sources, increasing energy efficiency, and reducing the use of fossil fuels. Additionally, the EPA is conducting research and monitoring to develop adaptation and mitigation strategies to reduce the impacts of acidification, such as buffering sediments, restoring seagrasses, and conserving refugia. The Ocean and Coastal Acidification Program is leading the EPA's efforts to raise awareness, conduct research, and monitor the long-term impacts of acidification on our oceans and coastal communities.
Despite the EPA's efforts, the public remains largely unaware of the impacts of water acidification. At pH2O Analytics, we believe in the power of data to spread awareness and inform decision-making. Our data models provide insights into local water acidification trends, helping communities take action to mitigate the impacts of acidification. We believe that by working together and taking action, we can protect the health of our oceans and the communities that depend on them.
How can you stop acidification?
Reducing carbon emissions is one of the most effective ways to prevent ocean acidification. This can be achieved through simple lifestyle changes such as reducing energy consumption in your home by turning off lights and electronics when not in use. You can also switch to energy-efficient appliances and light bulbs. Additionally, you can reduce your carbon footprint by eating less meat, as the meat industry is a significant contributor to carbon emissions. Choose to consume more plant-based foods or sustainably sourced seafood instead. You can also support local farmers and businesses to reduce the carbon footprint of your food choices.
Another way to prevent acidification is to reduce the amount of waste that ends up in our oceans. This includes properly disposing of plastics and other non-biodegradable materials, as well as reducing the use of single-use items like plastic bags, straws, and water bottles. You can also participate in local beach cleanups and support organizations working towards reducing plastic pollution in our oceans. By taking these small steps, we can all contribute towards reducing our carbon footprint and protecting our oceans from the harmful effects of acidification.