A review paper on climate change in the ocean by Gattuso et al. (2015) (Mitchell Bundick)
This review paper discusses the effects of climate change on the ocean, including ocean acidification, increased sea surface temperatures, dissolved oxygen levels, etc., and how these effects impact ecological systems as well as economics. The paper creates two climate change scenarios, with one being the current rate of global emissions and the other being a scenario with strict climate regulations in place. In both climate scenarios, the world's oceans will be negatively impacted, resulting in death to many marine populations and a loss of valuable ecosystem services. Sea level rise will also continue to worsen, which brings an entirely new wave of problems on top of the disruption to marine environments. Overall, the review documents the potentially dark future for our oceans if no action is taken.
In terms of conserving marine systems, I think some people and some nations struggle with understanding the importance. From a cultural perspective, someone living in a landlocked area may not care what happens in the oceans, as it doesn't affect their direct day-to-day life. In comparison, it may be easier for someone in an area like this to see the effects of deforestation and empathize. On the other hand, island nations are often among the leaders in marine restoration and conservation, as it is part of their everyday life, culture, and oftentimes religion and spirituality. It is something that has been part of their lineage forever. No matter what part of the Earth you inhabit, the ocean and its activity affect your life directly or indirectly. For some, it affects their culture and spirituality. In the climate crisis, the oceans are one of the most impacted systems, which is why it is important to continue to monitor their status.
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