On July 28, the OA Alliance hosted the webinar a webinar highlighting Ocean Acidification and Food Security.
Climate change is already changing marine ecosystems, causing large declines in the availability and abundance of many fish stocks, especially in the tropics. Climate change has already negatively impacted food production from shellfish aquaculture and fisheries in some ocean regions, leading to declines in net primary production and catch potential.
These effects are often compounded by other threats, including overfishing, habitat destruction, and pollution (including plastics), resulting in reduced availability of fish. This is particularly concerning given the rising global demand for aquatic food.
Ocean acidification is already causing changes in ocean, coastal, and marine species and ecosystems that millions of people rely on for food.
While emerging publications examine the required policy responses to the impacts of climate change on both large scale and small-scale fisheries, ocean acidification remains under-examined in relation to food security policy
Presentations and panelists discussed:
Current state of the science re. the impacts of acidification on seafood species.
Latest policy briefs and initiatives that examine the relationship between climate change and blue foods.
Enhancing governance and financing support to adequately assist nations and regions in prolonged climate-ocean adaptation efforts with an emphasis on food security.
Featured Speakers and Panelist:
Dr. Ellycia Harrould-Kolieb, School of Agriculture, Food and Ecosystem Sciences, Faculty of Science, University of Melbourne, Australia
Dr. Annika Frosch, Bartlett School of Environment, Energy, and Resources, University College London, United Kingdom
Karly Kelso, Director on the Climate Resilient Food Systems, Environmental Defense Fund
Dr. Mitchell Lennan, School of Law, University of Aberdeen, United Kingdom
Councilman J. Guadalupe Castaneda, Makah Tribal Council
Maximilian Schwarz, International Affairs Officer, European Bureau for Conservation and Development (EBCD)
