The negative impacts of ocean acidification have become a severe threat to our global seafood supply and aquatic ecosystems more than ever. Increasing carbon emissions are causing our oceans to become record-breaking acidic, significantly disrupting their natural chemical balance and harming wildlife habitats.
From contaminated marine species to decreasing seafood supply and worldwide environmental hazards, more must be done to combat the consequences of ocean acidification before the damage becomes irreversible if left unaddressed.
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Decreased Global Seafood Supply From Contaminated Marine Species
One of the most critical effects of ocean acidification is the threat to our global seafood supply. In addition to over-absorbing rising CO2 levels from burning fossil fuels, our oceans absorb pollutants from these related human actions. As a result, it contaminates the marine species we consume, like lobsters, shrimp, and minerals.
If sustainable alternatives to fossil fuels aren’t implemented to combat these negative ocean acidification effects, our seafood supply will decrease worldwide.
Additionally, this limited availability of seafood will increase consumer prices due to production and harvest challenges from this contamination.
Ocean Acidification Monitoring & Water Filtration System Investments
Commercial fisheries and aquaculture farms must invest in marine monitoring and water filtration technologies to combat the effects of ocean acidification.
Continuously monitoring oceans measures their acidification levels and allows staff to modify seawater intake based on the real-time pH accurately. It also verifies when the water quality is safe enough to farm fish and aquatic species.
Water filtration systems help land-based seafood production facilities reduce the carbon levels in their water tanks to ensure ethical animal welfare and food safety standards. These technological investments are crucial to improving the implementation and management of sustainable commercial seafood practices.
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Nearshore Aquaculture Farm Relocations to Land-Based & Offshore Sites
Relocating nearshore aquaculture farms offshore or to land-based operations reduces ocean acidification pressures. Because nearshore and coastline areas have minimal water flow and lower seafloor depth, aquaculture by-products like fish waste, uneaten fish feed, and water treatment chemicals can easily accumulate and release CO2. It can also trigger toxic algal blooms, which are among the effects of ocean acidification.
While it’s not easy or cheap to move nearshore aquaculture farms, especially large-scale facilities, they can save on costs by relocating to existing land-based infrastructures. Additionally, aquaculture farms can apply for government-funded grants and low-interest loans for financial assistance.
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Sturgeon Industry Alliance of America, 26 February 2025. Full Article.
