A collaborative study by Chinese and U.S. scientists has revealed how a massive carbon release 56 million years ago dramatically altered ocean chemistry, serving as a critical warning for the impact of modern climate change.
The research, recently published in the journal Nature Geoscience, was conducted by a team from Peking University, Pennsylvania State University, the University of California, Riverside, and other leading institutions. Their work focuses on reconstructing the state of ocean acidification during the Paleocene-Eocene Thermal Maximum (PETM), a period characterized by a significant rise in global temperatures and major disruptions to ecosystems.
By analyzing geological records, the scientists discovered striking parallels between the ocean acidification that occurred during the PETM and current trends resulting from rising atmospheric carbon dioxide levels. The findings indicate that the massive carbon release millions of years ago led to ocean acidification similar to what is being observed today.
The study highlights the importance of understanding past climate events to predict future changes. “The PETM provides a historical precedent that can help us anticipate the long-term impacts of today’s carbon emissions on our oceans,” said a researcher involved in the study.
These insights underscore the urgent need for global efforts to reduce carbon emissions and mitigate the effects of climate change. By learning from the past, scientists and policymakers can work together to protect marine ecosystems and ensure a sustainable future.
Reference(s):
Ancient climate crisis offers warning on modern ocean acidification
cgtn.com
