Ocean Acidification: The Other Problem with CO_2

摘要

In our most recent virtual issue, you will find several research articles related to the theme, "Ocean Acidification: Causes, Consequences, and Cures". It is part of an effort to organize ES&T content for readers and draw added attention to important findings. These papers will commence a virtual series known as an "ES&T Select". Climate change has been called the most vexing environmental problem of the 21st century, and ocean acidification (OA) is just one manifestation of it. It is caused by the increasing partial pressure of carbon dioxide, a weak acid, in sea surface waters (see 2014 National Climate Assessment). A wicked problem with an immense mass signature of CO_2, ocean acidification foretells a long recovery period even after greenhouse eases are reduced in the atmosphere.