A step away from the usual articles on global warming and the melting of the ice caps, “The suffocating sea” gives a brief yet informative insight of the effects of climate change on our marine life and coral reef eco systems, an area which I am researching. The author has written a heartfelt piece not a scientific document, but the figures presented show he has clearly done his research. The reader is given basic facts on water chemistry including the maximum tolerable levels of PH and carbon dioxide reef systems can accommodate. Pope also informs us of the reefs imminent demise, and that at current rates of pollution the enormous variety of bio-diversity will be lost forever. There is also mention of coral bleaching and the expelling of zooxanthalle (but not in depth) the symbiotic algae residing in the corals tissue, the area I am currently targeting. One of the most interesting aspects of the article is an “Ocean Manifesto” a 5 step plan to save our oceans,something I have never witnessed before. Targets include setting up ocean reserves, tackling sea pollution and implementing further controls on fishing.
In conclusion this is a well researched and written document, giving just enough information for the general reader to comprehend the state of the current situation, hopefully making the public more aware of the value of our reefs both environmentally and economically.
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