CO2 Threatens the Oceans

The oceans are facing a grave threat from the increasing levels of carbon dioxide (CO2) in the atmosphere. According to a recent study, the oceans have absorbed 30% of global CO2 emissions since the industrial revolution, leading to a rapid acidification of the water. This has serious implications for marine life, as many species rely on calcium carbonate to build their shells and skeletons. Consequently, the integrity of coastlines is being compromised, with the risk of rising sea levels and accompanying storms. 

Dr. Andy Ridgwell of the University of Bristol’s School of Geographical Sciences has warned that ocean acidification is occurring at least 10 times faster than at any other time in history. This has already had a devastating effect on some species, with scientists at the Interuniversity Institute for Marine Sciences in Eliat, Israel finding evidence of a primary reef builder going extinct due to excessive CO2 levels. 

The consequences of this are far-reaching and could lead to marine life extinctions. It is therefore essential that steps are taken to reduce global CO2 emissions and protect the world’s oceans.

Heightened Concerns About Ocean Acidification in the U. S. (Washington State)

A scientific study conducted by the Department of Ecology for the State of Washington has revealed a dramatic decrease in shellfish larvae between 2005-09. This has had a significant impact on the industry, which employs 3,000 people and generates $270 million in annual revenue. Hedia Adelsman, Executive Policy Advisor for the State of Washington, Department of Ecology, has attributed the problem to “Upwelling”, a phenomenon in the summer when strong winds push aside warmer surface water and bring up colder water which is rich in carbon dioxide, thus, impeding the development of shellfish larvae. Ms. Adelsman has called on the White House and Congress to take the issue seriously. 

However, there is little evidence that Capitol Hill is taking meaningful action on Global Warming and Climate Change. Despite the world facing serious droughts, the disappearance of 20,000-year-old glaciers, and oceans turning acidic, the nation’s politicians appear to be apathetic to the world’s biggest threat to life on the planet. 

Research conducted by Ocean Acidification, National Geographic, April 2011, has revealed that even if CO2 emissions were to cease today, it would take tens of thousands of years for ocean chemistry to return to its pre-industrial condition. A group of more than 150 leading researchers issued a declaration in 2008, warning of the ‘severe’ effects that rapid changes in ocean chemistry could have on marine organisms, food webs, biodiversity, and fisheries within decades. 

One species particularly vulnerable to CO2 levels is the Pteropod, a free-swimming creature with a calcium carbonate shell. Pteropods are a crucial part of the food chain, eaten by animals ranging from tiny krill to giant whales, and serve as an important food source for salmon, mackerel, herring, and cod.

Coral Reefs Are Key to Marine Life

The University of Sydney is conducting research on One Tree Island in the Coral Sea, where the effects of rising CO2 levels are of particular concern. Professor Ken Caldeira, of the Department of Global Ecology, has warned that if coral reefs disappear, the entire ecosystem could collapse. Studies have shown that calcification has declined by 40% at one location on the northern tip of the reef, while ocean acidification is impacting the entire life cycle of coral polyps. Up to nine million species are at risk of extinction if the current trajectory of CO2 emissions continues. Despite the severity of the situation, the United States has yet to commit to a sweeping solution, such as transitioning to alternative energy sources.

Is it too Late?

Despite the vast majority of Americans being unaware of ocean acidification, the reality is that it is caused by CO2 emissions. This has been confirmed by Elizabeth Kolbert, who remarked that it is not a fair fight between corals and pteropods and the global economy built on cheap fossil fuels. The American political establishment is celebrating their efforts to make the country energy independent, but this comes at a cost to the environment. By forcing poisonous chemicals underground and fracking the Earth to release fossil fuels, the planet is being subjected to an all-out assault. This could have devastating consequences for future generations, who may never experience the wonders of a glacier, an ocean reef or clam chowder. The only way to avert the most extreme acidification scenarios is to dramatically reduce CO2 emissions. It is essential that action is taken now to ensure a better future for our children’s children.

The Good News/Bad News

Scientists are in agreement that the planet can still be saved from the effects of global warming and CO2 emissions, but only if the world transitions away from fossil fuels and towards alternative energy sources. Solar, wind, and biofuels are all viable options, yet this shift requires strong political leadership to be effective. Such a move could spark a new era of economic growth, creating millions of jobs and a cleaner planet. 

Unfortunately, the current political climate in the United States does not show any sign of committing to reducing CO2 emissions in the near or distant future. Both major parties are committed to achieving energy independence through fossil fuels, leaving the future of the planet uncertain. 

The solution to both the unemployment problem and the planet problem is clear: commit to green energy independence.

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