Just as a heart circulates blood and regulates the body’s temperature, the ocean controls the circulation of heat and moisture throughout the climate system. When we burn fossil fuels, we put a lot of stress on the ocean, damaging its ability to keep the climate stable. As a result of this stress, aquatic ecosystems are altered, pumping too much heat and moisture throughout the system. The results include ocean warming, a decrease in the abundance and diversity of ocean life, sea level rise, stronger storms, and ocean acidification.
Typically, when people think of the ocean, they see only the surface. Our cultural model is that it is vast and indestructible, a world apart from us other than as a source of resources and recreation. Our ocean heart must be monitored and cared for to ensure overall health and functioning, and the best care is preventative: protecting and preserving the habitats and ecosystems we depend on. Responsible management -, taking practical, common-sense steps to address problems facing our ocean today,- is in the best interest of current and future generations.
“Climate change weakens the ability of the ocean and coasts to provide critical ecosystem services such as food, carbon storage, oxygen generation, as well as to support nature-based solutions to climate change adaptation.”
Learn more
Here are some websites that we at LexCAN find to be trustworthy, accurate and clear:
- Climate Interpreter, a network of individuals and organizations committed to using evidenced-based communications methods and providing the social and emotional support needed to engage as climate communicators.
- IUCN, the International Union for Conservation of Nature is an international organization working in the field of nature conservation and sustainable use of natural resources.
- New England Aquarium, Anderson Cabot Center for Ocean Life, applying innovative, science-based solutions to combat unprecedented threats to our oceans.