Sightline Project

Northwest Ocean Acidification


Oceans–and their salt-water extensions, like Puget Sound–play an enormous role in our region’s culture and prosperity. Marine life, from oysters to king crab, have supported Northwest communities for generations. But years of addiction to fossil fuels have put them at risk.

This series explores the local costs of ocean acidification –the process by which water absorbs too much carbon pollution, becoming more corrosive. These changes in our water’s basic chemistry place our complex web of marine life in jeopardy.

It’s not tomorrow’s problem; it’s happening here and now. (Photo credit: Rik_C, flickr)

Project Posts

Climate Pollution Killing Oysters

Scientists find the "smoking gun" that's killing Northwest oysters.

Washington Creates Ocean Acidification Panel

Their goal: What can we do about acidifying seas?

Fossil Fuels R Us

Northwest mussel shells show a shift towards fossil-fuel based carbon.

Report: Northwest Ocean Acidification

Sightline details the hidden costs of carbon dioxide pollution.

Tackling the Other Carbon Problem

What we can do about ocean acidification.

Carbon Dioxide: The Evil Ninja

How tribal kids see ocean acidification.

Are You a Banker or a Gambler?

Commercial fisherpeople weigh the threats to their livelihood from corrosive seas.

Trouble on the Half Shell

Baby oysters and carbon dioxide don't mix.

The Puget Sound Shuffle

How will Northwest creatures fare in more acidic seas?

Coming to a Shore Near You

Acidified water has shown up sooner than we thought.