Carbon Emissions Driving Ocean Acidification

According to the report, oceans absorb about 30% of the carbon dioxide (CO₂) released into the atmosphere. This process has led to a steady drop in ocean pH levels, making waters more acidic than at any point in the past 14 million years. Scientists warn that this trend could accelerate if greenhouse gas emissions are not drastically reduced.

Impact on Marine Life

Rising acidity threatens coral reefs, shellfish, and plankton — the foundation of the marine food chain. Acidic waters make it harder for organisms like oysters, clams, and corals to form shells and skeletons, leading to ecosystem collapse and economic losses for fisheries worldwide.

Global Food Security at Risk

Experts warn that billions of people who rely on seafood as a primary protein source could be affected. Fisheries-dependent communities in Asia, Africa, and small island nations face severe challenges if ocean biodiversity continues to decline.

Urgent Call for Climate Action

The report urges governments to commit to deeper emission cuts under the Paris Agreement and accelerate the transition to renewable energy. Researchers also call for increased funding for ocean monitoring and conservation efforts.

“Protecting our oceans is not just an environmental issue — it is a matter of human survival,” the authors wrote, warning that failure to act could have irreversible consequences.