Ocean Acidification & Loss of Coral Reefs
The Acid Test
When carbon dioxide mixes with seawater, carbonic acid results-acidification. this absorption can be catastrophic for marine life. The carbolic acid in the water dissolves calcium in corals; it eats away at the shells of crustaceans and crabs and hinders the growth of plankton and fish. Not only is it depleting wild lobster, crab, and mussel populations, but also oyster farms. Some scientists call ocean acidification the "evil twin" of climate change.
Coral reefs are particularly harmed. They are the nurseries for thousands of ocean species, offering habitat, protection, and nourishment. Yet the coral reefs are bleaching and dying from acidification, warming waters, and pollution.
Without coral reefs, fish populations decline and food chains are disrupted. In addition, many islands and coasts will be overrun with waves, as the coral reefs are their breakers and shoreline protection. For the latest international information on ocean acidification, visit the ICC Working Group on Climate.
What can you do? Change your carbon footprint, plant trees, and get your friends, family, neighbors and faith community members also involved.
This short video showcases young people experiencing the realities of ocean acidification in their fifth generation oyster business in Puget Sound,
Here is a sample of the film "Chasing Corals," which is a great resource for starting discussions on this issue.
The National Assessment on Climate explains the changes happening now in the oceans and what needs to be done.
So religion can be a minority, but it can be a huge influence. . . . .
We might just find that we can have our feet in society
and our head in Heaven
and we can bring the light that will vanquish the darkness.
That is the kind of religion the world needs right now.
Rabbi Jonathan Sacks