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Ocean Acidification Program News

Coastal Acidification Networks declare OARS Commitment

  • OA News, OAP Happenings
Fishing vessels from the Fishermen's Dock Cooperative ply the waters of the New York Bight for fluke, hake, squid, and scallops. Credit: Mid-Atlantic Regional Council on the Ocean

The Coastal Acidification Networks (CANs) collectively submitted a Commitment to the international Ocean Acidification Research for Sustainability (OARS) Programme in May 2024. OARS, a UN Ocean Decade supported program, is dedicated to minimizing and addressing the impacts of ocean acidification through enhanced cooperation at all levels and is aligned with Sustainable Development Goal Target 14.3. OARS maintains seven Outcomes toward addressing ocean acidification. Also, OARS published White Papers that highlight key outputs and products and identify necessary inputs and partners to successfully implement each Outcome. By submitting an OARS commitment, the CANs aid a better understanding of global ocean acidification initiatives and actions underway worldwide. Furthermore, this commitment promotes the CANs work and fosters knowledge exchange and collaboration. 

The CANs commit to specific regional actions that meet the OARS Outcomes.

  • Work with scientists, industry, and communities to identify knowledge gaps and information needs. Additionally, facilitate two-way exchange of information between those collecting data and those needing information. 
  • Provide data and tools for decision making through the creation of high-quality information products at local, regional, and national levels. 
  • Synthesize and interpret the state of the science.
  • Recommend regional priorities for monitoring and research, as well as sharing best practices for monitoring. 
  • Support workforce development initiatives through mentoring early career professionals and working with underserved and underrepresented communities.

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ADAPTING TO OCEAN ACIDIFICATION

The NOAA Ocean Acidification Program (OAP) works to prepare society to adapt to the consequences of ocean acidification and conserve marine ecosystems as acidification occurs. Learn more about the human connections and adaptation strategies from these efforts.

Adaptation approaches fostered by the OAP include:

FORECASTING

Using models and research to understand the sensitivity of organisms and ecosystems to ocean acidification to make predictions about the future, allowing communities and industries to prepare

MANAGEMENT

Using these models and predictions as tools to facilitate management strategies that will protect marine resources and communities from future changes

TECHNOLOGY DEVELOPMENT

Developing innovative tools to help monitor ocean acidification and mitigate changing ocean chemistry locally

REDUCING OUR CARBON FOOTPRINT

50 more ways to reduce your carbon footprint >

On the Road

Drive fuel-efficient vehicles or choose public transportation. Choose your bike or walk! Don't sit idle for more than 30 seconds. Keep your tires properly inflated.

With your Food Choices

Eat local- this helps cut down on production and transport! Reduce your meat and dairy. Compost to avoid food waste ending up in the landfill

With your Food Choices

Make energy-efficient choices for your appliances and lighting. Heat and cool efficiently! Change your air filters and program your thermostat, seal and insulate your home, and support clean energy sources

By Reducing Coastal Acidification

Reduce your use of fertilizers, Improve sewage treatment and run off, and Protect and restore coastal habitats

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TAKE ACTION WITH YOUR COMMUNITY

You've taken the first step to learn more about ocean acidification - why not spread this knowledge to your community?

Every community has their unique culture, economy and ecology and what’s at stake from ocean acidification may be different depending on where you live.  As a community member, you can take a larger role in educating the public about ocean acidification. Creating awareness is the first step to taking action.  As communities gain traction, neighboring regions that share marine resources can build larger coalitions to address ocean acidification.  Here are some ideas to get started:

  1. Work with informal educators, such as aquarium outreach programs and local non-profits, to teach the public about ocean acidification. Visit our Education & Outreach page to find the newest tools!
  2. Participate in habitat restoration efforts to restore habitats that help mitigate the effects of coastal acidification
  3. Facilitate conversations with local businesses that might be affected by ocean acidification, building a plan for the future.
  4. Partner with local community efforts to mitigate the driver behind ocean acidification  – excess CO2 – such as community supported agriculture, bike & car shares and other public transportation options.
  5. Contact your regional Coastal Acidification Network (CAN) to learn how OA is affecting your region and more ideas about how you can get involved in your community
       More for Taking Community Action