Story Behind the Mural
The past ten years rank among the warmest years in the instrumental record of global surface temperature. The ocean is changing as temperatures warm and greenhouse gas concentrations increase. Warmer temperatures are causing sea levels to rise and creating a higher risk of coastal flooding. Additional carbon dioxide is dissolving in the ocean, making it more acidic. More acidic ocean water impacts a wide variety of marine species, including species that people use for food.
These changes in the ocean will cause severe economic and environmental impacts if greenhouse gas emissions are left unchecked and no effort is made to adapt to the changing climate and ocean.
The Focus
Climate changeTake Action
Consider reducing your carbon footprint by
- Saving energy and opting for renewable energy when possible.
- Choosing climate-friendly transportation such as walking, bicycling, switching to an electric or hybrid car.
- Reducing your meat and dairy consumption and eating more plant-based foods.