We’ve got BIG news!

Since the industrial revolution around 1750, burning fossil fuels such as coal, oil, and gas has increased the concentration of atmospheric carbon dioxide (CO2). This contributes substantially to climate change by trapping excessive heat in the atmosphere. The carbon dioxide is also absorbed by the ocean changing the PH of the water, a process known as “ocean acidification.”

Ocean acidification affects species like oysters, clams, sea urchins, corals, and plankton. Their shells, comprised largely of calcium, can become brittle and difficult to form in acidic conditions, making survival for these species more challenging and placing stress on the entire food web.

It is estimated by the end of the century, surface waters of the ocean could become 150% more acidic.

Our oceans support us in a big way (like providing 50% of the oxygen we breathe). It’s time to go BIG to support our local ocean.

Next Tuesday, May 5, the Port Townsend Marine Science Center will participate in GiveBIG, a one-day fundraising event. If you choose to donate next Tuesday, your gift will allow us to pilot a program giving local high school students the opportunity to investigate ocean acidification solutions.

We need your help in raising $13,000 in one day to support climate change action.

When you donate next Tuesday, you are making a direct investment to reduce climate change.

And, thanks to some of our PTMSC champions, your investment on May 5 will be matched dollar for dollar up to $6,500, doubling your impact!

Gone Green? GiveBIG! Support Your Local Ocean next Tuesday, May 5.