Researchers at the University of British Columbia released a report stating that oceans are less effective at storing CO2 today compared to during the ice age.

UK researchers find that since 2000, carbon dioxide levels are increasing 35% faster than expected. This is due to a combination of increased emissions, and a decrease in take-up rates by oceans and trees.

Earth has experienced mass extinctions over millions of years when tropical seas see several degrees of warming. Scientists now fear that the trend in warming will cause extinctions once again, but this time at a faster rate.

Recent studies have shown that forests in the Canadian North are becoming less effective in absorbing greenhouse gases. Oceans are seeing similar results. These concerns call for action – we need to reduce emissions and conserve and preserve forests and oceans.

“Australian and US scientists will send an unmanned submersible 2.5 kms (1.5 miles) deep into the ocean off Australia next week to track climate change by studying coral at unprecedented depths.”

“The latest ocean research shows currents around Antarctica are responding to climate change. Scientists studying the freshness of seawater have found the ocean is becoming less salty in areas near the Antarctic continent.”

Scientists from the University of California researched and mapped the global impact of 17 different human activities on marine ecosystems. The illustrations showed that fishing, climate change and pollution have left an enormous impact on the world’s oceans. In addition, 40% of oceans have been heavily affected.

Scientists studying sea and ocean levels believe that levels will fall over millions of years, despite the current rise.

Australia Energy Minister Martin Ferguson has stated that the Offshore Petroleum Act will be amended to permit carbon emissions from coal-fired power stations to be stored in the ocean floor around Australia. Exploration will began in 2008.

Lance Lesack, a Canadian researcher studying environmental changes in the Canadian North warns of the impact climate change will bring upon in the Mackenzie Delta. Larger storm surges caused by melting ice may flood the delta, says Lesack.