Are we ready for ocean acidification? A framework for assessing and advancing policy readiness

Abstract Effective climate policy that addresses carbon dioxide emissions is essential to minimizing and addressing the impacts of ocean acidification (OA). Here we present a framework to assess the readiness of OA policy, using coral reefs as a focal system. Six dimensions encompass comprehensive p...

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Bibliographic Details
Published in:Environmental Research Letters
Main Authors: Albright, Rebecca, Hansson, Lina, Cooley, Sarah R, Gattuso, Jean-Pierre, Marshall, Paul, Marshall, Nadine, Fletcher, Stephen, Haraldsson, Gunnar, Hoegh-Guldberg, Ove
Other Authors: International Atomic Energy Agency
Format: Article in Journal/Newspaper
Language:unknown
Published: IOP Publishing 2023
Subjects:
Online Access:http://dx.doi.org/10.1088/1748-9326/acc085
https://iopscience.iop.org/article/10.1088/1748-9326/acc085
https://iopscience.iop.org/article/10.1088/1748-9326/acc085/pdf
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Summary:Abstract Effective climate policy that addresses carbon dioxide emissions is essential to minimizing and addressing the impacts of ocean acidification (OA). Here we present a framework to assess the readiness of OA policy, using coral reefs as a focal system. Six dimensions encompass comprehensive preparation by ecosystems and societies for the impacts of OA and other anthropogenic hazards: (1) climate protection measures, (2) OA literacy, (3) area-based management, (4) research and development, (5) adaptive capacity of dependent sectors, and (6) policy coherence. We define standardized indicators, identify leading countries, and evaluate the case study of Australia, the country with the largest coral reef system. The framework provides a rubric for a government unit to self- assess strengths and weaknesses in policy preparedness and to prioritize future endeavors.