What lies Beneath the Sea
By Amy Dente
Earth’s vast ocean has always acted as a buffer against the overall warming of our planet by absorbing carbon dioxide that is emitted into the atmosphere. As more CO2 is released more will be taken in, resulting in a chemical reaction that throws off the pH of the water known as ocean acidification. The large amount of carbon dioxide will also raise the overall temperature of the earth’s seas, creating an uninhabitable environment for many marine animals, specifically coral. Coral reefs go through a process called bleaching when the temperature increases by just a few degrees. Bleaching is a death sentence for these animals because they are expelling an important algae needed to survive. With the loss of this organism that the coral is dependent on, the animal loses its color and becomes a sickly white, no longer able to produce its own sustenance. Since these aquatic animals are responsible for 25% of life in the ocean and are considered to have the highest biodiversity of any ecosystem, their death is creating a domino effect. As they die all life that is connected to them dies as well. This includes many different species of fish and mammals needed to sustain a healthy ecosystem and support the demand we humans have for marine food. Aside from being responsible for organisms within the ocean, coral reefs protect coastlines from the damaging effects of wave action and tropical storms. Without these animals our world would be a lot more destructive and a lot less rich with life. Changes in human behavior are essential to help save the reefs that so many of us depend on. Overall the main threat is the abundance of carbon dioxide being released into the atmosphere through human activity. Decreased carbon dioxide emissions can occur by switching to green and environmental friendly sources for transportation such as biking or carpooling. Even taking a bicycle to work or school a few times a month will have a positive effect on our oceans. Other ways to reduce emissions include turning off lights when you're not using them or switching to LED. Eating locally-produced and organic food can also cut carbon dioxide emissions by reducing the amount of greenhouse gases needed to transport food. Reuse and recycle materials as about 29% of greenhouse gases are released from manufacturing and transporting goods. Practicing these activities can also encourage others to do the same thing and will help limit the amount of CO2 being emitted into our atmosphere and our oceans.