We are connected by a global Ocean that covers over 70% of our planet.
7 Reasons the Climate Crisis is an Ocean Crisis
Rising sea levels have occurred this last century due to the burning of fossil fuels. As sea levels rise many people who live at sea level are in danger due to loss of infrastructure and more severe storms. 1 in 8 people worldwide live below 30 feet of sea level.
Ocean heat. The ocean absorbs about 90% of the excess heat from the air making land more habitable. Ocean species are absorbing the brunt of climate change.
Coral bleaching occurs due to increasing sea surface temperatures. The coral reefs comprise 70% of the biodiversity of the ocean.
Ocean acidification occurs from the ocean absorbing carbon dioxide from the air due to the burning of fossil fuels. Changes in the chemistry of the ocean leads to a more acidic ocean which impacts the ability of shellfish to form shells or corals to form skeletons.
Declining sea ice speeds up global warming due to more solar radiation being absorbed by the ocean rather than being reflected by the ice back into the atmosphere.
Marine heat waves can cause the death of many species including corals, kelp, seagrasses and many other species.
Slowing of ocean currents is a result of climate change. The ocean regulates our global climate through the distribution of heat though ocean currents. Additionally, carbon, oxygen, and nutrients are transported by currents around the globe.
What can you do? Reduce your carbon footprint however you can. Think of tiny habits you can do such as shut off lights, reduce the heat or air conditioning, reduce your water use while taking a shower or brushing your teeth, reduce your meat consumption… We can all do a little bit more.