We depend upon our oceans for life on this planet. Our oceans not only provide food that we eat, but they also regulate the air that we breathe. However, climate change is disrupting the ocean’s ecosystem and its abilities to provide these services.
How can scientists communicate effectively to the public about the effects of climate change in the ocean?
The FrameWorks Institute was at the Woods Hole Ocean Institute in Massachusetts recently to guide science practitioners in this important endeavor.
On the first day of our engagement, we heard a presentation from Dr. Anne Cohen about the latest research on ocean acidification. She explained how carbon dioxide released from the burning of petroleum and coal for energy and transportation is absorbed by the oceans, which acts as a carbon sink. This carbon dioxide combines with water to form carbonic acid. The increase of carbonic acid in the ocean makes it difficult for marine organisms and animals to thrive. This is leading to an ecosystem collapse for marine animals such as plankton, coral, and shellfish – all of whom play an important role in the marine foodchain.
Continue reading ‘FrameWorks helps ocean scientists communicate on climate change’