Ask us anythingMany ocean creatures make their shells out of calcium carbonate (CaCO3). This process is more difficult when the ocean pH is lower. Why would greenhouse gas emissions harm these creatur?

Greenhouse gas emissions increase the concentration of carbon dioxide in the atmosphere, which is absorbed by the ocean, leading to ocean acidification. This lower pH makes it harder for ocean creatures to build their calcium carbonate shells, as the acidic conditions can dissolve their shells. This ultimately threatens the survival of these creatures and disrupts the marine ecosystem.