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Climate Change and Our Oceans: Impacts and Solutions

Today’s sustainable initiatives often focus on environmental concerns we can readily see or perceive. For example, air pollution has attracted a great deal of attention, and unusual weather patterns have sparked necessary conversations about climate change. Other issues, while less visible to many people, are just as influential and just as deserving of our attention. 

The degradation of marine ecosystems is not only concerning but also alarmingly unpredictable. While we can observe some changes, many of the ocean’s responses to climate change remain uncertain, making the situation even more critical.  

Today’s ocean crises are caused by a number of issues, including acidification, greenhouse gas emissions, overfishing, and the accumulation of plastics. Unfortunately, this has already proven devastating for marine life, with issues such as coral bleaching becoming increasingly prevalent. 

We have reached a tipping point, and, if we don’t take significant action, things will get a lot worse. Solutions are within reach, however. Keep reading to discover key strategies for shrinking our carbon footprint and protecting vulnerable marine ecosystems. 

How Does Climate Change Affect the Ocean? 

Climate change’s impact reaches all corners of the Earth, including land, air, and sea. While the negative effects of global warming span every category of environmental science, there is no denying that the ocean has endured much of the damage. This sad reality is reflected in a growing body of data, which indicates that ocean temperatures are rising and that many other problems threaten marine life. 

While many climate change discussions focus on air temperature and changing weather patterns, it’s crucial to understand that the ocean is intricately linked to both. The ocean absorbs and redistributes heat, influences air temperatures, and plays a significant role in shaping global weather patterns. While these are important, the impact on the ocean is even more alarming. The ocean absorbs a significant portion of the excess heat from human-related carbon emissions. As a result, the ocean has grown warmer, leading to several negative consequences, such as: 

Warming Oceans 

Ocean temperatures vary significantly depending on geographic region and depth, with the deep ocean only averaging 39°F. That being said, a wealth of data indicates that, across regions, oceans are warming considerably. So, how does climate change affect the ocean, exactly? Warming oceans are a key indicator of climate change. 

Climate change indicators from the Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) suggest that, on average, sea surface temperatures have increased 0.14°F per decade since 1901. The warmest ocean temperatures ever recorded arrived in 2023, and experts anticipate that things will continue to heat up. Unfortunately, research indicates that over half the world’s oceans will suffer the effects of climate change within the next fifteen years. 

What’s particularly alarming is that ocean warming is occurring faster than many models predicted, highlighting our limited understanding of these complex systems. The rapid pace of change leaves scientists scrambling to update their projections, underscoring the urgency of immediate action. 

Rising Sea Levels 

Prompted, in part, by the rapid melting of glaciers and ice sheets, sea levels are on the rise, with experts anticipating that the coastlines will rise as much as twelve inches by 2050. These increased sea levels also occur in response to the expanding volume of the ocean, which is a byproduct of warmer water. 

Concerning data presented by the National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration (NOAA) indicates that, while global sea levels have increased by a full nine inches since 1880, the pace of change is accelerating. This is showcased by an increase of 0.14 inches per year between 2006 and 2015, compared to just 0.06 inches per year throughout most of the 20th century. 

While hurricanes like Katrina and Sandy provided glimpses of devastating impacts, climate change is expected to intensify hurricane effects in multiple ways. Rather than simply increasing the number of hurricanes, experts project: 

  • More intense hurricanes with higher wind speeds. 
  • Increased rainfall during hurricanes, leading to more severe flooding. 
  • Higher storm surges due to the combination of more intense storms and sea level rise. 
  • These factors together amplify the potential damage from future hurricanes, even if the total number of storms doesn’t significantly change. 

These factors together amplify the potential damage from future hurricanes, even if the total number of storms doesn’t significantly change. 

Ocean Acidification 

The ocean is becoming a lot warmer, but that’s only the beginning. Another major development is the rapid decrease of the ocean’s pH levels. This means huge implications for aquatic life that could have a devastating impact on marine biodiversity. 

Known as ocean acidification, this reduction in pH levels occurs as atmospheric carbon dioxide (CO2) is absorbed by the ocean. This prompts significant chemical reactions, including the formation of carbonic acid (H2CO3). This is followed by a rapid increase in hydrogen ions and a decrease in carbonate ions. Over time, this can alter food chains, to the detriment of both marine biodiversity and the human food supply. 

The full consequences of ocean acidification are still unfolding, with potential impacts on marine ecosystems that we’re only beginning to understand. The cascading effects through food webs could lead to unforeseen and potentially catastrophic changes in ocean biodiversity and productivity.  

Atlantic Ocean: A Case Study in Climate Change 

While the issues highlighted above are evident across many bodies of water, the Atlantic Ocean, in particular, has demonstrated the nuanced and far-reaching implications of climate change and general environmental degradation. As a concerning report published in Scientific American points out, “The year 2023 went down in history as the hottest on record for the North Atlantic.” 

Experts at Vox add that this is not only concerning from a present-day ecology perspective: “It’s also a warning of what could come — including what could put human life in harm’s way.” Key concerns include: 

Threats to Coastal Communities 

Plenty of today’s largest and most vibrant cities are situated along the Atlantic coast. Examples include New York, Miami, Lisbon, and Accra. These cities are increasingly vulnerable to rising sea levels and hurricanes, which place residents and entire economies at risk. 

Of course, these high water levels hit headlines during major storms, but the impacts are felt long after hurricanes or floods seem to subside. As the EPA points out, this can cause significant changes to entire landscapes, with low-lying lands submerged while existing wetlands, such as salt marshes, become open water. Experts at the EPA explain that already low elevations make Atlantic coastlines especially vulnerable. 

Atlantic Meridional Overturning Circulation (AMOC) 

No discussion of Atlantic Ocean climate change trends and their worrisome impact would be complete without mentioning an important ocean current system known as the Atlantic Meridional Overturning Circulation (AMOC). This transports heat and moisture on a global scale, thereby heavily influencing worldwide climate patterns. 

Responsible for “bringing warm water north and cold water south,” AMOC has always operated slowly, but experts believe that this relaxed pattern is about to stall out. This could have huge implications for Atlantic Ocean climate change. Researchers anticipate the further rising of Atlantic coast sea levels, plus rain belt shifts that could lead to devastating droughts. 

Recent observations in the Gulf of Maine have presented an intriguing anomaly that challenges our understanding of oceanic warming trends. Following several years of record-breaking warm temperatures, scientists have noted a significant influx of cold water into the region in 2024. This unexpected phenomenon has puzzled researchers, who speculate that the source may be linked to increased melting of Arctic sea ice. The sudden temperature shift underscores the complexity of oceanic systems and highlights the need for continued, rigorous scientific investigation to fully comprehend the intricate dynamics of climate change impacts on our oceans. 

Turning the Tide: Solutions for a Healthy Ocean 

Although we are in the midst of an ocean crisis, we have not yet reached the point of no return. We need to intensify our efforts, but change is still possible. Addressing the question, “How does climate change affect the ocean?” requires a collective commitment, as the status quo is no longer sufficient. Below, we have highlighted some of the most crucial strategies for tackling today’s top oceanic challenges: 

Mitigation 

Oceanic climate change cannot be truly addressed unless we make a greater effort to prevent increases in atmospheric CO2. If successful, this would prompt far-reaching benefits for the environment, extending far beyond the reaches of the Atlantic Ocean. Many mitigation strategies are already well underway, but they need greater buy-in and far stronger adherence. Examples include: 

  • Shifting to renewable energy sources, such as solar and wind power. Individuals can install solar panels to make significant contributions to this effort. 
  • Improving energy efficiency in our personal lives. Small measures such as insulating our homes or using smart power strips really do add up. 
  • Reducing vehicle mileage by walking, biking, or using public transportation. When driving, opt for smaller vehicles with excellent fuel economy. 

Adaptation 

While the mitigation strategies outlined above are absolutely worth pursuing, an unfortunate reality must be acknowledged. Climate change is our new reality, and warmer oceans are here to stay, at least for the foreseeable future. Yes, we should continue to reduce CO2 emissions, but even if we accomplish this, dangerous weather patterns are still likely in the next few years. 

It would be foolish to ignore this new reality, especially given the alarming predictions regarding major storms and rising sea levels in the near future. Hence, the need for adaptive strategies, which should help entire populations stay safe while also limiting the economic devastation of storms and rising sea levels. Essential strategies include: 

  • Building resilient infrastructure. Coastal communities are currently at risk, with some having already suffered greatly in response to devastating hurricanes. Moving forward, wind-resistant designs will be essential for coastal areas, along with structures strategically elevated above anticipated flood levels. Hospitals will need reliable backup power sources, so that, in the event of weather-induced outages, patients will remain safe. 
  • Implement sustainable fisheries management practices. With climate change impacting fish habitats, there will be a strong need for resilient fish stock. Regular stock assessments must be completed to verify population health. Marine Protected Areas (MPAs) should be established to conserve vulnerable habitats. Strong deterrence will be needed to prevent illegal, unreported, and unregulated (IUU) activities. 
  • Conserve and protect current ecosystems. Mangroves and wetlands are increasingly at risk of being turned into open water. These must be conserved not only for maintaining biodiversity, but also, because they act as such effective buffers in the face of storm surges. Nature-based strategies such as seagrass beds could potentially limit damage from wave energy, although integrated solutions such as breakwaters and strategic land-use planning will also prove necessary. 

Our Role in Protecting the Oceans 

Individually, we can make lifestyle changes that reduce our carbon footprint. Collectively, these can make a world of difference. Commonly cited strategies include: 

  • Using bikes or public transportation instead of driving cars. 
  • Flying less often and taking fewer international vacations. 
  • Eating less meat or adopting a vegetarian or vegan diet. 

While individual behavior changes can absolutely make a difference, collective action is also desperately needed. Many organizations actively advocate for policies that promise to safeguard oceans. These organizations need support, including both financial contributions and extra volunteers or advocates. Examples include: 

  • Oceana 
  • Ocean Conservancy 
  • Coral Reef Alliance 

Citizen science projects also matter. While passionate individuals are encouraged to pursue careers in environmental science and other research-heavy areas, others can become citizen scientists by working with respected nonprofits or government agencies to collect data and analyze results. This could uncover exciting opportunities to limit greenhouse gas emissions and protect our oceans. 

Charting a Course Toward a Brighter Future 

As the public becomes aware of warming oceans and vulnerable marine ecosystems, there is a stronger need for passionate advocates, who will continue to spread the word and fight for change. This effort calls for ongoing research, however, along with guidance from experts. The more training aspiring environmentalists seek, the better. 

Unity’s online Master of Professional Science in Marine Policy and Management empowers climate warriors to advocate for a brighter future. By earning their master’s in marine policy and management, students can explore sustainable practices while preparing for impactful careers in government agencies, non-governmental organizations (NGOs), environmental consulting firms, international organizations, and academic institutions. Get in touch to learn more about this powerful opportunity.

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