CO2 and ocean acidification

Carbon dioxide (CO2) is a greenhouse gas released from burning fossil fuels. When CO2 enters the atmosphere, some dissolves into oceans, forming carbonic acid. This process, called ocean acidification, lowers seawater pH and weakens the calcium carbonate structures of marine creatures like corals, mollusks, and shellfish. As acidity increases, their ability to build shells and skeletons diminishes, threatening marine ecosystems. Ocean acidification also disrupts food chains and overall ocean health, highlighting the importance of reducing CO2 emissions to protect marine life and maintain ecological balance.