Ocean acidification is an existential crisis that demands immediate action. The chemistry changes threaten the foundation of marine food webs, from microscopic plankton to coral reefs that support entire ecosystems. Without rapid emissions reductions, marine biodiversity faces unprecedented collapse.
While acidification poses challenges, marine ecosystems have shown remarkable adaptability throughout history. Some species, like algae and seagrasses, may actually benefit from higher CO2 conditions. Technological solutions, including ocean alkalinity enhancement, offer promising pathways forward.
There's a 37.1% chance that space-based technology will enable effective enforcement of the UN High Seas Treaty to reduce marine pollution and protect marine ecosystems before 2027, according to the Metaculus prediction community.