Ocean Acidification (OA) refers to the ongoing decrease in the pH of seawater caused by the ocean’s uptake of anthropogenic CO2 from the atmosphere. As CO2 dissolves, it forms carbonic acid, reducing carbonate ion availability and the ocean’s buffering capacity. This process affects marine organisms, ecosystems, and the ocean’s role in regulating Earth’s climate.
Involved biogeochemical EOVs
Inorganic Carbon
(The linked specification sheets were developed by the dedicated Global Ocean Observing System (GOOS) Expert Panels.)
Ocean Deoxygenation is the long-term decline of dissolved oxygen in seawater, caused by global warming and nutrient pollution. Warmer waters hold less oxygen and mix less efficiently, reducing ventilation. This oxygen loss threatens marine life, disrupts ecosystems, and weakens the ocean’s capacity to support fisheries and store carbon.
Involved biogeochemical EOVs
Oxygen,
Nutrients,
Stable Carbon Isotopes
(The linked specification sheets were developed by the dedicated Global Ocean Observing System (GOOS) Expert Panels.)
Biological Carbon Pump (BCP) is the natural process by which marine organisms capture carbon dioxide through photosynthesis and transfer it to the deep ocean. When plankton and other organisms die or release waste, part of this carbon sinks and is stored for long periods, helping regulate Earth’s climate and balance atmospheric CO2 levels.
Involved biogeochemical EOVs
Particulate Matter,
Dissolved Organic Carbon,
Nutrients
(The linked specification sheets were developed by the dedicated Global Ocean Observing System (GOOS) Expert Panels.)
Greenhouse gas fluxes describe the exchange of gases like carbon dioxide (CO2), nitrous oxide (N2O), and methane (CH4) between the ocean and the atmosphere. These fluxes influence how much heat is trapped in Earth’s climate system. Understanding when and where the ocean absorbs or releases these gases is key to tracking and managing climate change.
Involved biogeochemical EOVs
Inorganic carbon,
Nitrous oxide
(The linked specification sheets were developed by the dedicated Global Ocean Observing System (GOOS) Expert Panels.)
