Atmospheric carbon dioxide (CO2) levels are rising as a result of human activities, such as fossil fuel burning, and are increasing the acidity of seawater. This process is known as ocean acidification. Historically, the ocean has absorbed approximately 30% of all CO2 released into the atmosphere by humans since the start of the industrial revolution, resulting in a 26% increase in the acidity of the ocean. Ocean acidification causes ecosystems and marine biodiversity to change. It has the potential to affect food security and limits the capacity of the ocean to absorb CO from human emissions.

MC

• Dr Alistair Hobday, Senior Principal Research Scientist
  CSIRO Oceans and Atmosphere, Hobart Tasmania

Speakers

• Associate Professor Bärbel Hönisch
  Lamont-Doherty Earth Observatory, NY
• Assistant Professor Kristy J Kroeker
  University of California, Santa Cruz
• Dr Richard Matear
  CSIRO Oceans and Atmosphere, Hobart Tasmania
• Dr Luke Brander
  Environmental Economist, University of Hong Kong