Environmental Politics Ocean Governance Questions
The concept of ocean acidification in ocean governance refers to the ongoing decrease in the pH levels of the Earth's oceans, primarily caused by the absorption of carbon dioxide (CO2) from the atmosphere. This process occurs when CO2 dissolves in seawater, leading to the formation of carbonic acid. Ocean acidification has significant implications for marine ecosystems, as it can negatively impact various organisms, including shellfish, corals, and other marine life that rely on calcium carbonate for their shells and skeletons. In terms of ocean governance, addressing ocean acidification requires international cooperation and the implementation of policies and measures to reduce CO2 emissions and mitigate the effects of acidification on marine ecosystems.