OARS Outcome 4 : Biological Impacts

Ocean acidification impacts on marine organisms and ecosystems is better understood to protect marine life. Biological observation is implemented within ocean acidification monitoring, providing the possibility to improve predictions of vulnerability and resilience to ocean acidification at all temporal and spatial scales.

The Working Group for OARS Outcome 4 aims to bridge aspects of monitoring, biological impacts, and societal consequences by working closely with researchers across various disciplines, local communities, educators, industry, and policymakers, with the support of funders and communicators. Understanding the impact of acidification on marine ecosystems is necessary to protect the ocean and develop solutions to minimize future impacts.

OARS4 Co-Champion Carla Edworthy says, “The response of marine organisms to future ocean acidification is one of the aspects that has the most direct and comprehendable impact on humans, both locally and on a global scale. Understanding the impacts that ocean acidification will have on our biological marine resources and associated ecosystem services is central to plan our response and encourage collective action.”