Ocean acidification study: Carbon emissions are driving deep chemical changes in the oceans

A new study published in Science Advances by Jens Müller and Nikolaus Grube of the Institute of Biogeochemistry and Pollutant Dynamics at ETH Zurich highlights the increasing depth of ocean acidification. Using 3D models of the world’s oceans, researchers examined how carbon emissions have affected ocean chemistry since the industrial era. According to the report, the findings show that by 2014, acidification had reached an average depth of 1,000 metres, with some areas showing impacts as deep as 1,500 metres.

Impact of carbon emissions on ocean chemistry

According to the study, rising atmospheric carbon dioxide has not only warmed the oceans but also changed their chemical composition. This process, similar to the mechanism behind the acidic taste of carbonated beverages, has led to increased levels of acidification in seawater. Key indicators such as proton concentrations, pH levels and aragonite saturation state were used to simulate changes in ocean CO2 levels from 1800 to 2014.

According to the sources, research indicates that areas affected by ocean currents, such as the Atlantic Meridional Reversing Current, have shown more significant acidification at greater depths. This trend poses a threat to marine life, especially organisms such as pteropods, whose calcium-based shells are highly vulnerable in acidic environments.

Ecological consequences and future risks

Several reports have noted that deeper penetration of acidification could have adverse effects on marine ecosystems. Corals, already at risk from rising temperatures, face additional challenges due to chemical changes in their habitats. Reports show that the scale and intensity of acidification could disrupt food chains and biodiversity in deep ocean layers.

The findings emphasize the need to address carbon emissions to prevent further damage to the marine environment. The researchers’ work provides important insights into the long-term impacts of industrialization on global ocean systems, as highlighted in the journal.