Topic: Ocean Acidification

A report from the Potsdam Institute warns that the world's oceans are becoming increasingly acidic due to the absorption of human-generated carbon dioxide. Scientist Chris Harley explains that acidification reduces the building blocks for corals and shellfish, potentially devastating the $250 million Dungeness crab industry in British Columbia. The report suggests that ocean conditions will continue to deteriorate for at least 50 years unless emissions are drastically reduced.

Activists criticize the Koch brothers for funding climate denial, while "Hollywood Health and Society" works to provide resources for TV writers to include climate change storylines. A scientific study suggests that increased CO2 levels are making the jet stream more turbulent, leading to bumpier flights and more passenger injuries. Researchers at NASA's JPL lab are working with producers to ensure these environmental themes are factually represented in media.

A leaked IPCC climate report published by Mother Jones outlines five "terrifying" facts about the planet's future. These include unprecedented planetary changes, certain ocean acidification, and a potential sea level rise of five to ten meters by 2100. The hosts mock the phrasing "virtually certain" and the long-term atmospheric presence of carbon emissions.

The narrative of ocean acidification is challenged, with the hosts questioning the validity of NOAA data that only dates back to 1988. Former NOAA head Jane Lubchenco is identified as a key figure in promoting the "equally evil twin" of climate change. The discussion suggests that natural processes, such as algae blooms, are being ignored in favor of alarmist carbon dioxide theories.

Climate activists are criticized for using an analogy that global warming is equivalent to detonating four Hiroshima bombs every second. The hosts mock the theory that "missing" heat is hiding in the deep ocean and predict the movement will shift its focus to "ocean acidification" as temperature data fails to support warming. They reiterate their skepticism of computer models that cannot accurately predict short-term weather.

Actress Sigourney Weaver appeared on CNN to promote a documentary on ocean acidification and testify in favor of cap-and-trade legislation. Weaver claimed that CO2 emissions are creating carbonic acid that dissolves sea shells, specifically affecting wild oysters. The hosts mock her lack of scientific credentials and the timing of her appearance on Earth Day.