Climate Change and Ocean Services

Impact of Climate Change on Glaciers and Water Resources

• Glacial melting reduces the amount of freshwater available, affecting mountain river flows.
• Decreased freshwater availability impacts homes, agriculture, industry, and hydropower generation.

Rising Sea Levels and Coastal Challenges

• Sea level rise contributes to flooding and erosion in coastal areas, threatening infrastructure and ecosystems.
• Over 40% of the global population resides within 100 km of coastlines, making them vulnerable to sea level changes.

Ocean Ecosystems and Biodiversity

• Threats to marine life include ocean acidification, impacting organisms such as mollusks, corals, and plankton, which are crucial for marine food webs.
• Coastal ecosystems like mangroves, seagrass meadows, and salt marshes face increasing threats due to rising sea levels.

Marine Oxygen Production and Food Security

• Phytoplankton, which produce approximately 80% of the Earth's oxygen, are at risk from ocean acidification.
• Climate change consequences on marine ecosystems jeopardize food security for around 3 billion people relying on seafood as a primary protein source.

Global Climate Regulation and Interconnectivity

• Ocean currents are essential for regulating global and regional climates; changes in these currents significantly alter weather patterns.
• The interconnected nature of the Earth's systems means that climate change impacts are not isolated and can have cascading effects.

Cultural Heritage and Well-being

• The ocean and cryosphere hold significant cultural and spiritual importance for humanity, with climate change posing risks to this heritage.
• Recreational services provided by coastal and mountainous ecosystems are threatened, affecting overall human well-being.

This quiz explores the impact of climate change on oceanic services, including effects on glaciers, sea level rise, and coastal ecosystems. Learn about the essential marine life that supports global food webs and the risks faced by coastal populations. Assess your understanding of how we can protect these vital services.