What is ocean acidification commonly referred to as?

Ocean acidification is commonly referred to as "the other carbon problem" because it results primarily from increased levels of carbon dioxide (CO2) in the atmosphere. When CO2 is absorbed by seawater, it reacts with water to form carbonic acid, which leads to a decrease in pH, thus making the ocean more acidic. This process poses significant threats to marine ecosystems, particularly organisms that rely on calcium carbonate for their shells and skeletons, such as coral reefs and certain shellfish.

The term highlights the relationship between carbon emissions and the ocean's chemical balance, complementing issues such as climate change, which is often the primary focus when discussing the impacts of increased atmospheric CO2. Understanding ocean acidification as an issue linked to carbon emphasizes the broader implications of carbon emissions on both terrestrial and marine environments, making it a critical component in discussions about sustainability and environmental health.