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Gov. Gregoire announces next steps on ocean acidification

Bellamy Pailthorp
/
KPLU News

SEATTLE (AP) — Gov. Chris Gregoire has signed an executive order directing state officials to work on the problem of ocean acidification.

The governor is also recommending $3.3 million in her proposed budget to address top recommendations made by an expert panel she called to study the issue.

Acidification is caused when oceans absorb human-generated carbon dioxide. It has hit the shellfish industry in the Northwest hard.

There are six categories of recommendations outlined inthe blue ribbon panel’s summary report.

They are:

  • Increase our ability to adapt to and remediate the impacts of ocean acidification
  • Reduce local land-based Contributions
  • Reduce Carbon Dioxide Emissions
  • Maintain a Sustainable and Coordinated Focus on Ocean Acidification
  • Inform, Educate and Engage Stakeholders, the Public and Decision Makers in Addressing Ocean Acidification
  • Invest in Washington’s Ability to Monitor and Investigate the Effects of Ocean Acidification

Bellamy Pailthorp covers the environment for KNKX with an emphasis on climate justice, human health and food sovereignty. She enjoys reporting about how we will power our future while maintaining healthy cultures and livable cities. Story tips can be sent to bpailthorp@knkx.org.