Mediterranean Sea's environmental crisis deepens, study reveals
A recent Israeli government report highlights the alarming rise in temperature, acidity, and sea levels in the Mediterranean Sea, alongside increased mercury contamination.
Sue Surkes reports for The Times of Israel
In short:
- The Mediterranean Sea is warming at a rate exceeding global predictions, with a significant increase in acidity and rising sea levels.
- Mercury contamination shows a increase, particularly in the northern part of Haifa Bay, posing environmental and health risks.
- The report, a collaborative effort by various Israeli ministries and research institutes, underscores the need for environmental intervention in the region.
Key quote:
The faster pace of warming in the Mediterranean is due to it being a small body of water compared to the oceans.
— Israel Oceanographic and Limnological Research Institute report findings
Why this matters:
This report is a reminder of the escalating environmental crisis facing our seas, directly impacting marine life and human health. It underscores the urgency for global environmental policies and actions, particularly in the context of climate change and its far-reaching effects.
For some ocean creatures, infectious disease is growing amid a changing climate.