Wednesday, 25 September 2024

Crossing the Threshold

The Potsdam Institute for Climate Impact Research has revealed that the Earth has breached 7 of its 9 planetary boundaries (https://www.theguardian.com/environment/2024/sep/23/earth-breach-planetary-boundaries-health-check-oceans. Causing most concern is ocean acidification. Much of the excess carbon dioxide emitted by burning coal; oil and gas is dissolved in the extensive waters of the seas. This produces carbonic acid and lowers the pH (increases the acidity) of their waters. Acidification is close to its critical threshold, posing a threat to marine ecosystems and global liveability. The worst acidification is currently seen in the Southern and Arctic Oceans. Ocean acidification has occurred in previous geological eras, leading to mass extinctions of prominent lifeforms. Let's hope we're are not heading for a repeat performance.
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