Scientists Sound the Alarm: Ocean Acidification—The Climate Crisis’s ‘Evil Twin’ Threatening Our Ecosystems

On a bright day at Plymouth marina, you can look across the harbor and see various boats. However, about six miles away, a large yellow buoy floats in the water. This buoy, known as L4, belongs to the Plymouth Marine Laboratory (PML), which focuses on marine research.

Professor James Fishwick, head of marine technology at PML, often checks the buoy. He explains, “This buoy is packed with instruments that measure temperature, salinity, dissolved oxygen, and even acidity levels.”

Recent findings show that the pH levels in the ocean are falling rapidly, indicating increased ocean acidification. This process occurs when carbon dioxide from the atmosphere mixes with seawater, creating more acidic conditions. It’s often called the "evil twin" of climate change because it quietly threatens marine life.

A study published by PML alongside other institutions, including the National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration (NOAA), revealed that ocean acidification is escalating faster than scientists expected. The challenge lies in the invisibility of acidification; it’s difficult for people to grasp its effects since pH changes aren’t visible at the beach.

Professor Steve Widdicombe of PML highlights the problem: “The biological effects of acidification take a long time to manifest, making it hard to capture attention from decision-makers.” He notes that differentiating these effects from other stressors, like pollution, complicates their communication.

To illustrate the impact, there’s a compelling video from NOAA showing a marine creature called a pteropod swimming under normal and acidic conditions. In the healthy environment, the pteropod swims gracefully with a well-formed shell. However, in acidic conditions, it struggles and appears damaged. Such visuals help raise awareness, but they are just a start.

Some areas, like the U.S. Northwest, have already seen the economic impact of acidification. In 2010, the region’s oyster farming industry, valued at millions, nearly collapsed due to a sharp decline in oyster production. Researchers traced the issue back to naturally high CO2 levels in upwelled water, which, combined with atmospheric acidification, made it nearly impossible for oyster larvae to survive.

In response, hatcheries are now adding chemicals to their water to counteract acidity, a strategy that combines scientific understanding with practical solutions. Professors like Helen Findlay at PML hope that these insights can inspire other regions facing similar challenges.

Despite multiple international agreements, such as the Global Biodiversity Framework aimed at protecting marine life, progress has been slow. The urgency for action remains high as many countries lack the resources to combat acidification effectively.

Meanwhile, geoengineering—the practice of intentionally altering ocean chemistry—is on the rise. Some companies are experimenting with adding alkaline solutions to seawater to raise pH levels. However, experts warn that this approach may distract from the urgent need to reduce CO2 emissions. Jessie Turner from the Ocean Acidification Alliance states, “The primary solution to ocean acidification is still cutting emissions. We can’t lose sight of that.”

While addressing CO2 is crucial, other actions are also important. Reducing organic pollution and protecting marine habitats can help create a more resilient ocean environment.

It’s clear there’s growing frustration among marine scientists regarding the lack of attention to ocean acidification. With events like the recent UN ocean conference in France, many hope to elevate this pressing issue on government agendas.

As Turner emphasizes, “CO2 levels are rising and ocean pH levels are falling. We need to talk about this.” The time for action is now, and as the world continues to grapple with climate change, ocean acidification must not be overlooked.

For more insights on this topic, you can explore further through NOAA and Plymouth Marine Laboratory.

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