Warming, Acidification and Deoxygenation of the Ocean

Abstract

The ocean plays an essential role in regulating Earth’s climate. The ocean provides many services, but two crucial ones are its ability to take up heat and carbon dioxide (CO₂) from the atmosphere and cycle both around the world in its vast currents, as well as store them away long term. The ocean is changing rapidly and often unnoticed by the general public. However, as the effects of climate change become more prevalent on the ocean, we will start to see a direct impact on human society. This chapter discusses three main climate change effects on the ocean: ocean warming, acidification, and loss of oxygen. Each section also discusses the most significant impacts to marine species and ecosystems and finishes by highlighting the consequences for people.