Greenhouse Oceans: Overview

The reaction of the oceans to the increasing greenhouse effect are multifaceted. In some cases, these changes can already be observed and will continue to increase in the future. The work conducted by Kiel marine scientists on research into the future ocean will be supported by seven additional junior research groups, working in an interdisciplinary fashion.

The main questions on this topic are:

• How does the ocean react biologically and chemically to the changing atmosphere?
• How are ocean currents and marine ecosystems reacting to global warming?
• How high is the capacity for CO₂ sequestration in the oceans and how will this develop in the future?
• What are the consequences of changes in the marine system for the welfare of mankind and for the management of greenhouse gases?

Ocean change - Junior research groups

1. A1: Ocean Acidification
2. A2: Seafloor Warming
3. A3: Oceanic CO₂ Uptake
4. A4: Ocean Circulation
5. A5: CO₂ Sequestration
6. A6: Sea Surface Chemistry
7. A7: Valuing the Ocean