Introduction

Ocean acidification is the name of the average ph of the ocean is decreasing. On average, the ocean has become about 30% more acidic in the past 250 years. This poses a major threat to the marine food chain. It is believed that the pH has dropped by 0.1 unit since the industrial revolution, which makes the ocean 29% more acidic. There are a couple causes of ocean acidification, as well as many solutions that may fix the problem. If left untreated, ocean acidification could possibly cause major issues in the oceanic environment

solutions

Solutions to Ocean Acidification

If everyone attempts to stop the ongoing ocean acidification, then are willing to save the world. Several steps can be taken to stop the decreasing pH levels of the ocean. People have to reduce their carbon dioxide emissions. This can be done by car-pooling, taking public transportation, or just walking to more places. Many of the ways to stop ocean acidification are the same to those that will deter global warming.

            Many people have to realize that everything they do impacts the environment in one way or another. Everybody has to take certain steps to stop the degradation of the environment because if the environment continues to spiral down at its current rate, then it will be very different in the future. The current generation will have nothing to give to the future generations. Essentially everyone has to become more green. 

Causes of Ocean Acidification

            Ocean acidification is the decreasing of the pH levels in the ocean. The decrease of levels is caused by the increase of carbon dioxide going into the ocean. The dissolving carbon dioxide in the ocean causes an increase in hydrogen ions which causes the pH levels to drop. The large amount of carbonic acid also does not allow calcifying organisms to produce their shells. Carbonic acid removes carbonate from the water which allows the calcifying organisms such as clams and mussels to make their shells.

            Another cause of ocean acidification is the burning of fossil fuels. The burning of the fossil fuels has the same effect as the excess carbon in the water. The fossil fuels cause carbon dioxide to leak into the oceans and decrease the pH levels of the ocean with devastating side effects. The clamming industry will be greatly impacted if the pH of the ocean continues to decline at its current rate. Precautions have to be taken so that the ocean remains at its natural pH.