Ocean acidification: Global perspectives and India's path forward.
Vysakh S1, Sabarinath S1, Shijin Ameri1
1Amrita School for Sustainable Futures, Amrita Vishwa Vidyapeetham, Amritapuri, India.
Iscience
|December 3, 2025
Summary
Ocean acidification (OA) threatens marine life and livelihoods. This study reviews India's OA research gaps and proposes policy strategies for resilience, aligning with global sustainability goals.
Area of Science:
- Marine Biology
- Environmental Science
- Policy Studies
Background:
- Ocean acidification (OA) presents a substantial global risk to marine ecosystems, fisheries, and coastal economies.
- India, with its extensive coastline and reliance on marine resources, requires integrated OA strategies.
- Existing OA monitoring and mitigation efforts in India are underdeveloped compared to global leaders.
Purpose of the Study:
- To identify critical gaps in India's current ocean acidification research and policy framework.
- To propose a strategic framework for enhancing India's resilience to ocean acidification.
- To align national efforts with Sustainable Development Goal (SDG) Target 14.3 for improved scientific cooperation.
Main Methods:
- Literature review of existing OA research in India.
- Analysis of current marine policy landscape concerning OA.
- Synthesis of recommendations for monitoring, impact assessment, and policy intervention.
Main Results:
- Significant gaps exist in India's OA monitoring infrastructure and research scope.
- Socio-ecological impact assessments for OA are lacking.
- Current marine policies do not adequately integrate OA considerations.
Conclusions:
- A comprehensive, collaborative approach is essential to address OA in India.
- Strengthening monitoring systems and implementing targeted policies are crucial for OA resilience.
- Integrating OA into national policy will safeguard biodiversity, fisheries, and coastal communities.
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