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Ocean acidification is considered by some scientists and environmentalists to be the most pressing environmental issue next to climate change. They aren't mutually distinct problems, but acidification of the planet's waters certainly gets less time in the spotlight than does climate change. The EPA recently decided to consider ways to help states use existing rules under the Clean Water Act to curb pollutants that exacerbate the problem, and right now the agency is accepting public comment on just this issue.
The EPA website explains that states are required to "develop lists of impaired waters" and Total Maximum Daily Loads for the pollutant(s) causing the damage. Until Friday, May 21, the EPA is seeking public input on what considerations the agency should take into account when deciding how to list waters as threatened or impaired by ocean acidification.
The agency is also seeking input on "how EPA can take into account other Federal ocean acidification programs and initiatives when deciding how to approach ocean acidification under the 303(d) program."
Public participation in politics is important, especially for people who want to see changes in the system and complain about government agencies not acting in the public interest. Got a comment? Submit this week.
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Southern Ocean Could Hit Ocean Acidification Tipping Point 30 Years Early
